The 5th Mudeungsan Geo Marathon will take place on October 10.
Approximately 1,650 marathoners from across the country are expected to participate.
The event is organized by Gwangju Metropolitan City, Damyang County, and Hwasun County to celebrate the second reaccreditation of the Mudeungsan UNESCO Global Geopark.
The marathon will start at 8 a.m. from the public parking lot in front of the Kumho Hwasun Spa Resort, passing through the Inamsamgeori in Damyang County and returning at the Dagok Samgeori in Hwasun County.
There will be five race categories: 30 km, half marathon (21.0975 km), 10 km, 5.18 km, and a 2 km walking course.
The 2 km walking course will include a guided tour of the Seoyuri Dinosaur Fossil Site with a geopark interpreter, allowing participants to enjoy on-site explanations and events.
This year’s marathon will feature a 'Geopark Experience and Promotion Booth' to showcase the key activities of the Mudeungsan UNESCO Global Geopark, which has been internationally recognized for its value.
The booth will offer various activities, including geological research (a puzzle commemorating the completion of the 'Korean Peninsula Geological Map' after 102 years), education (making watermelon-shaped keychains), international exchange (introducing representative attractions from 10 sister parks), and community cooperation (promoting Mudeungsan watermelon, Mudeungsan buncheong pottery, and Damyang traditional sweets).
Participants who engage in the experience programs and collect stamps will have the chance to join a mini golden bell event to receive souvenirs.
They will also receive keychains featuring Mudeungsan watermelon stickers.
A photo contest will be held, encouraging participants to find and photograph the geopark logo, characters, and geological sites located throughout the event area.
Additionally, officials and interpreters from the UNESCO Global Geopark in Cheongsong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, will join a 2 km walk to the internationally significant Seoyuri Dinosaur Fossil Site.
During the opening ceremony, a 'Puzzle Attachment Ceremony' will be held to celebrate the 100th day of the establishment of Gwangju Metropolitan City.
Hwang Gi-yeon, Deputy Mayor of Gwangju Metropolitan City, stated, “This marathon will be a meaningful event to promote the beauty of the Mudeungsan area and the value of the UNESCO Global Geopark. I hope all marathon participants complete the race in good health and safety.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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