Busan to Host 12th Korea International Marine Leisure Week

Busan, South Korea – The coastal city of Busan is set to host the 12th Korea International Marine Leisure Week (KIMA WEEK 2024), a much-anticipated annual event dedicated to promoting marine leisure activities and raising awareness about the marine leisure industry. Scheduled to take place from August 10 to 18 at Gwangalli Beach and other major beaches in Busan, this year's event promises an exciting lineup of activities and experiences.

Since its inception in 2013, KIMA WEEK has served as a pivotal platform for enhancing public engagement with marine sports. Organized by the Busan City Government and the Korea Marine Leisure Network, the event has grown in scale and scope, drawing participants from all over the world. This year, KIMA WEEK will feature an array of engaging programs, including marine leisure experiences, competitions, and an academic forum aimed at fostering industry development.

A highlight of KIMA WEEK 2024 is the Busan Mayor's Cup Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Competition, which will officially kick off the event on August 10 at Gwangalli Beach. Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, this competition will see over 100 participants competing in 28 races across various categories, including elementary, middle, and high school divisions, as well as open and elite categories. The races will test participants' skills in both short-distance (300 meters) and long-distance (1 kilometer) events, showcasing the growing popularity and accessibility of SUP as a sport.

From August 16 to 18, KIMA Beach, an interactive event zone located at Gwangalli Beach, will offer visitors a dynamic mix of experiences. With 35 booths dedicated to various activities, the event zone will feature photo opportunities, relaxation areas, and interactive experiences designed to engage and entertain attendees. This event zone will serve as a hub for exploring marine leisure activities, offering something for everyone, from families to thrill-seekers.

In addition to these activities, KIMA WEEK 2024 will offer a range of marine leisure experiences from July 23 to August 31. Participants can enjoy paddleboarding, jet boating, yachting, surfing, and more, across several iconic locations, including Gwangalli Beach, Songjeong Beach, and the Suyeong River. Registration for these activities is available through the 'Bada Ya Nolja' app, which provides a convenient platform for booking and information about the events. This app enables participants to register on a first-come, first-served basis, with discounted rates available for early bookings, ensuring that the events are accessible to a wide audience.

To support inclusivity, KIMA WEEK is offering free participation for socially disadvantaged groups, reflecting Busan's commitment to making marine leisure activities available to all. Prices for other participants range from 10,000 to 35,000 KRW, depending on the chosen activity.

In addition to the experiential activities, KIMA WEEK will feature an academic component with the Marine Leisure Tourism Policy Forum slated for September. This forum will bring together industry experts and academics to discuss the future of marine leisure tourism, fostering dialogue and collaboration within the sector.

For those interested in participating or learning more about the event, detailed information is available on the official KIMA WEEK 2024 website at www.kimaweek.org. As Busan prepares to host this event, the city invites residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of marine leisure and discover the myriad opportunities that the ocean has to offer.