What happened at the festival?

About 20,000 residents and students took part in the 2026 Gimcheon Citizens' Sports Festival on October 15 at Gimcheon Stadium. The event marked the 77th anniversary of Gimcheon Citizens' Day under the slogan "Citizens Running Together, a Harmony Festival of Communication."

How did the opening unfold?

The opening featured a dynamic performance by K-Tigers and a precise color guard demonstration. Teams from the city's 22 eup, myeon, and dong districts then entered the stadium, each showing off its local character and pride.

What was special about the torch?

The torch was lit at the Peace Tower of Samyeongdaesa Park. According to the city, about 200 residents from the 22 districts joined the relay, and the final runner lit the cauldron to applause from the crowd. Officials presented the flame as a symbol that all 22 districts form one community.

Who won the awards?

| Category | Winners | |---|---| | Overall champion | Daesin-dong | | Overall runner-up | Jomyeon | | Overall third place | Pyeonghwa Namsan-dong | | Achievement Award | Yanggeum-dong (rose from 13th in 2024 to 4th) |

Additional awards were given for harmony, cheering, order, model conduct, entrance, and communication, with separate top, runner-up, and encouragement prizes in each category.

What did the mayor say?

Mayor Bae Nak-ho said he hoped the festival would be a place where all citizens run, laugh, and share their hearts together. He also thanked staff, volunteers, and residents who took part.

For international fans

Gimcheon is a city in North Gyeongsang Province in southeastern South Korea. Local events like this one are a good window into everyday community life outside Seoul, where neighborhood pride and collective participation remain strong.