The 2025 Gunsan Saemangeum International Marathon, recognized by World Athletics, concluded successfully on April 6, 2025, at the Wolmyeong Sports Complex in Gunsan City. This year's event attracted approximately 12,000 participants, including elite athletes and enthusiastic marathon fans from both domestic and international backgrounds. Runners competed fiercely across various categories, including the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km events.
In the elite full marathon international men's division, Ethiopian runner Immer Tadese Demise set a new tournament record, finishing with an impressive time of 2 hours, 09 minutes, and 03 seconds. His performance not only secured him first place but also marked a significant achievement in the history of the event.
Park Min-ho from Korea Electric Power triumphed in the domestic elite men's division, crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 56 seconds. Meanwhile, Choi Kyung-sun of Jecheon City Hall made headlines by winning the domestic women's division with a remarkable time of 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 21 seconds. Choi's achievement is particularly noteworthy, as her time surpassed the previous record set by Lee Soo-min in 2023 by 38 seconds.
The marathon course, which was altered based on measurements taken by the Korea Athletic Federation in November 2024, showcased the beautiful cherry blossom paths of Gunsan, allowing participants to enjoy the scenic beauty of spring while competing. Runners experienced a unique blend of the city’s historical and cultural heritage throughout the race, with landmarks and attractions lining the route.
As the runners traversed the course, they were met with enthusiastic cheers from local citizens, who encouraged them with applause and traditional performances. The vibrant atmosphere not only motivated the participants but also fostered a sense of community spirit.
In addition to the competitive events, the marathon weekend featured various food stalls and experience zones, drawing in spectators and participants alike. The local government organized special promotions for Gunsan’s agricultural and marine products, making the event a celebration of local culture and community.
Park Min-ho, reflecting on his performance, stated, "Since the Daegu Marathon, I have been dealing with minor injuries. Perhaps due to that, I felt some pain in my pelvis towards the end of the race, which affected my final sprint. Nevertheless, I want to commend myself for finishing strong." His candid remarks resonate with many athletes who understand the physical and mental challenges of long-distance running.
The city of Gunsan took extensive measures to ensure the safety of all participants. In collaboration with the Gunsan City Health Center, local medical institutions, and the Gunsan Fire Station, 20 emergency vehicles were on standby to address any potential emergencies during the event. This proactive approach underscored the city's commitment to providing a safe environment for both runners and spectators.
As the 11th edition of the Gunsan Saemangeum International Marathon, this year’s event marked a record high in participation, setting the stage for future competitions. The successful execution of the marathon has solidified Gunsan’s reputation as a premier destination for international marathon events.
The local government expressed gratitude towards the citizens for their support, which played a crucial role in the marathon's success. A representative stated, "Thanks to the active cooperation of our citizens, marathoners were able to run amidst the full bloom of cherry blossoms and the rich cultural heritage of Gunsan. We will work even harder to establish Gunsan as a hub for international marathons in the coming years."
Looking ahead, the Gunsan Saemangeum International Marathon is poised to attract even more participants and spectators, with plans for continued improvements and enhancements to the event. The combination of competitive spirit, community involvement, and the stunning backdrop of Gunsan makes this marathon a highlight on the athletic calendar.
As the dust settles on this year’s race, anticipation builds for the next edition of the marathon, promising more thrilling performances and community engagement in the heart of Gunsan.
