A Self-Sustaining Local Festival Created by Young People
Recognized as a New Model for Community Culture
On October 11, 2025, the 3rd Goa-eup Ssireum Tournament, where citizens took center stage, was held successfully at the Yeou Square in Deulseong Ecological Park in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province.
This event was organized by the Goa-eup Youth Association in collaboration with local community organizations, drawing over 1,000 participants and enthusiastic support from the crowd.
Notably, the tournament was operated without any municipal funding, relying solely on membership dues and the voluntary participation of the Youth Association members.
With the aim of creating "a village festival where citizens laugh together, sweat, and unite," local residents participated as athletes, delivering exciting matches. Despite being amateurs, they showcased a high level of skill, eliciting cheers from the audience.
As a "village festival where citizens laugh together, sweat, and unite," people of all ages and genders are enjoying ssireum together. Group photo of Goa-eup Youth Association / Photo by Lee Ihwan
Now in its third year, the Goa-eup Ssireum Tournament is recognized as a citizen-driven festival, planned and executed by young people, and is regarded as a new model for fostering local community culture.
Kim Jinhyun, President of the Goa-eup Youth Association, stated, "Thanks to the many people who participated and made the tournament shine, the Ssireum Tournament is growing into a festival that represents our town. As it has become a traditional event, young people will continue to take the lead in creating opportunities for regional unity."
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