Location of Organizer92, Gyeokpohang-gil Byeonsan-myeon, Buan-gun, Jeollabuk-do
Location of OrganizerBuan-gun, Jeollabuk-do
Definition
An international yacht race held every June at Gyeokpo Port, Gyeokpo-ri, Byeonsan-myeon, Buan-gun, Jeollabuk-do
Summary
With the Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race, Buan County aims to attract marine leisure hobbyists and establish a port specializing in yacht marinas in order to create a high value-added project and form the groundwork for the future marine sport industry. An international yacht race can raise the status of the nation, expand the yacht enthusiast population, and promote regional tourism and resources. It can also contribute to making the port a site for sporting competition as well as friendship and exchange among yacht racers from around the world.
Origins and Background of the Festival
As the Korean people’s interest in marine leisure and sports, yacht moorings were added to Gyeokpo Port. By 2015 the port was fully equipped with facilities to open the Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race.
Content of Events
The First Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race was held for five days from September 9 through 13 in 2015. The race, participated by sailors from Korea, the U.S., Japan and China, included three categories: the In-Shore 1 and 2 Race, In-Shore Race and Off-Shore Race. The In-Shore 1 and 2 Race was held from Gyeokpo Port to Gyeokpo Port via Wido Islet, or about 20 km over 1 hour and 30 minutes and the Off-Shore Race was from Gyeokpo Port to Saemangeum Embankment and back to Gyeokpo Port, or about 40 km over 3 hours. Additional events included a marine parade, spectator cruises, the Night of International Sailors as well as the Children’s Painting Contest and the National Photography Competition. In 2016, the Second Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race was held from June 23 through 26; in 2017, the Third Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race was from June 15 through 18; and in 2018, the Fourth one was from June 22 through 24.
Current Status
The annual Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race was held for the fifth time in 2019 from June 27 through 30, as the event was renewed with more interesting events. As the race proceeded with an improved image, by its fifth year, the Saemangeum Cup International Yacht Race became a true international sporting event participated by 380 sailors from 16 countries including the U.S., Japan, Russia and China. By then, Gyeokpo Port came to be recognized as an international center for marine sports. During the yachting event, the organizer offered chances for some 1,500 citizens to experience a ride on a competition yacht on the ocean free of charge and also organized well-regarded social events where local residents and sailors from around the world mingled.
