Busan is good

Busan to Host the 106th National Sports Festival on October 17 – The Sea, Passion, and Art as One

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Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) has revealed the direction of the opening ceremony production for the 106th National Sports Festival, which returns to Busan after 25 years, heightening anticipation among citizens.

The opening ceremony, to be held at 6 p.m. on October 17 at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium, will carry the vision “United Korea in Global Hub City Busan.” It aims to go beyond a conventional sporting event to deliver a breathtaking “comprehensive art show” that will captivate audiences nationwide.

Renowned musical director Park Kalin and Laurent St. Marie, former technical director of Cirque du Soleil, will collaborate with top Korean and international experts to present a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that artistically embodies Busan’s passionate energy.

In line with the title “Park Kalin’s Legendary Ground Show,” the production focuses on storytelling that vividly reflects Busan’s emotions and dynamism. To align with the theme “Ships Are Coming In, Busan!”, the stadium ground will feature an enormous stage modeled after Busan Port’s container terminal, as if the terminal itself had been transported there.

The Preshow, which opens the ceremony, will portray the bustling energy of the Busan Port terminal preparing to welcome arriving ships, immersing the audience in the vibrant atmosphere as if they were truly there.

Show 1

In Show 1, the ground will transform into a stage for a one-of-a-kind omnibus musical themed around Busan.
Led by musical actor Choi Jae-rim, performers will emerge from containers to depict the grand narrative of the port city’s growth, interwoven with the dreams, struggles, and vitality of Busan’s people. This musical sequence will deliver heartfelt inspiration and a message of hope for the future.

The performance will consist of multiple interlinked stories that transcend time and space, filling the stage with emotional and colorful scenes. Vibrant costumes and stage designs will elevate Busan’s story into a brilliant work of art.

Show 2

Show 2 will feature the torch-lighting ceremony, the highlight of the evening. The Dongnae Crane Dance, a symbol of Busan’s traditional art, will greet the sacred flame with graceful yet powerful movements. Following this will be the final torchbearer’s lighting performance, culminating in a magnificent fireworks show that announces the official start of the festival.

The official program will begin at 6:30 p.m. with the opening declaration and the parade of athletes.
Athletes will enter through the central spectator stands facing the main podium to engage more closely with the citizens, in the order of: teams from local governments, overseas Koreans, and the five northern provinces.

The ceremony will continue with the National Anthem, athletes’ and referees’ oaths, opening declaration by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, welcome address by the Mayor of Busan, opening remarks, and congratulatory messages.

Finale and Performances

The ceremony’s grand finale will feature performances by the popular band Daybreak and singer Kim Tae-woo, who will energize the audience with songs symbolizing Busan and a mass sing-along event, adding to the festive atmosphere.

To prevent congestion, the city recommends early arrival and the use of public transportation on the day of the event.

Mayor Park Heong-joon emphasized, “The opening ceremony of the 106th National Sports Festival will be a stage that embodies Busan’s charm through harmony and inspiration. It will bring immense pride and emotion to our citizens and stand as a celebration of glory for the athletes. I sincerely invite everyone to join us for this meaningful occasion.”