The Italian Embassy in South Korea successfully hosted the "3rd World Italy Sports Day" on September 13 at its residence in Hannam-dong, Yongsan, Seoul. This event, organized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to promote the internationalization of Italian sports and related industries, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding between Italy and South Korea through sports.
During the opening ceremony, Yook Dong-han, the mayor of Chuncheon, delivered a speech. Chuncheon will host the 2026 Chuncheon World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships from September 16 to 20, where the Italian national Taekwondo team, affiliated with the Italian Taekwondo Federation (FITA), will participate as special guests of the embassy's event.
The participation of Italian national athletes in Taekwondo, a traditional Korean martial art, showcases how sports can transcend language and cultural barriers, connecting individuals, communities, and nations.
Following the opening ceremony, a panel discussion featuring athletes and sports officials from Italy and South Korea took place, along with Taekwondo demonstrations by the Italian national team and the Chuncheon Taekwondo demonstration team. Additionally, attendees enjoyed various activities, including a mini soccer match organized by Seoul Calcio FC, a football team composed mainly of Italians residing in South Korea.
Emilia Gatto, the Italian Ambassador to South Korea, stated, "We aim to celebrate the deep friendship between Italy and Korea through sports. I am very proud to welcome the leaders and athletes of the Italian Taekwondo national team, who are here to participate in the Chuncheon World Championships." She added, "Sports diplomacy plays a crucial role in showcasing the exceptional capabilities of Italian sports. This event reminds us of the fundamental values of effort, perseverance, and respect inherent in sports. I hope these values will further enrich the relationship between Italy and Korea."
Italy is renowned for its competitive edge in various sports, including soccer, fencing, cycling, skiing, and tennis, and the sports industry is a significant pillar of its economy. The added value of the sports-related industry amounts to €32 billion (approximately $49.8 trillion), accounting for about 1.5% of Italy's GDP and creating around 421,000 jobs. The export value of sports goods also reaches approximately €4.7 billion (about $7.3 trillion).
Moreover, Italy is strengthening its position as a host for major international sporting events. In February of this year, the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics were held, and on September 3, the Taranto Mediterranean Games took place successfully. Next year, Naples will host the 38th America's Cup international yacht race.
This year marks the 142nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Italy. Following the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to South Korea in January and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's visit to Italy in June, the relationship between the two countries has been elevated to a "special strategic partnership." In this context, the Italian Embassy in South Korea is hosting various friendly events to enhance exchanges between the two nations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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