By: Amjad Aziz Malik Secretary General AIPS ASIA

Gunsan(Republic of Korea), April 21, 2026: The ‘2026 Gunsan Saemangeum Marathon,’ a signature sporting event of Gunsan City, Jeonbuk State, was held with great success on the 5 th , centered around Wolmyeong Stadium. Marking its 20th anniversary since its inception as a national competition in 2004, this year’s race saw approx. 12,000 participants from nine countries competing in various categories, including the Elite Full Course, Masters Full Course, Half & Half, 10km, and 5km.

In terms of race results, Isaac Kipkemboi Too of Republic of Kenya claimed victory in the International Elite Men’s category with a new CR (Competition Record) of 2:07:15. In the Domestic Elite Men’s category, Shim Jong-sub (Korea Electric Power Corporation) took first place with a time of 2:16:37, while Jung Hyunji (Samcheok City Hall) topped the Domestic Elite Women’s division at 2:36:23. Additionally, Kim Ho-yeon (Gunsan City Hall) finished third in the domestic men’s category with a time of 2:18:24. On a spring day with cherry blossoms in full bloom, participants enjoyed the essence of marathoning, while racing past Gunsan’s major modern cultural heritage sites and tourist attractions. Throughout the course, citizens encouraged runners with applause, cheers, Pungmulnori (traditional Korean percussion music performed by a troupe), and street performances, further heightening the festive atmosphere. The event reaffirmed its status as a true international marathon with an increased proportion of overseas participants. It was also praised for enhancing both participant convenience and the event’s prestige through eco-friendly operations and the introduction of a smart timing system. Jeonbuk State, currently candidate region for the 2036 Summer Olympics in the Republic of Korea and Gunsan City, plan to leverage this event to strengthen their competitiveness as a regional festival combining sports and tourism, further developing it into a world-class global marathon.