Gangwon sports festival for people with disabilities opens in Donghae

▲ This poster for the 19th Gangwon State Para Sports Festival, set to be held at Donghae Gymnasium in the eastern coastal city of Donghae on May 18-20, 2026, is provided by Donghae City. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 18 (Yonhap) -- The 19th Gangwon State Para Sports Festival kicks off Monday afternoon at Donghae Gymnasium in the eastern coastal city of Donghae for a three-day run.

A total of 2,565 athletes and officials are participating in the event, which runs through Wednesday, competing in 17 sports, including billiards, cycling, hangung and table tennis.

The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place from 4:20 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Donghae Gymnasium. The event includes congratulatory performances by singers Kang Jin and Kang Hye-yeon, followed by the athletes' parade, an official declaration of the opening and welcoming speeches.

Officials from the Gangwon State's para sports council, local sports associations for people with impairment, athletes and citizens were expected to attend the ceremony to cheer on the participants and promote harmony.

The city government has also prepared experience booths in front of the gymnasium, where visitors can try seven sports events and use a physical fitness certification center.

During the event, participating athletes and officials will receive free admission to major tourist attractions in Donghae, including Mureung Byeolyucheonji, Cheongok Golden Bat Cave, Mureung Valley and Dottaebi Gol Sky Valley. Participants can enter free of charge by presenting their event ID cards.

Donghae Mayor Sim Gyu-eon said he hopes the event will help promote sports for people with impairment while serving as a festival of unity and inspiration for all participants. He added the city will do its utmost to ensure athletes can compete safely and comfortably.