On February 28, 2025, the Korean province of Jeollabuk-do made history by being selected as the candidate city to host the 2036 Summer Olympics during the Korean Sports Council's annual delegate meeting held at the Seoul Olympic Parktel. This announcement marks a significant turn of events, as Jeollabuk-do gained 49 votes out of 61 total, decisively defeating Seoul, which only garnered 11 votes, and leaving one ballot invalid.
During the voting process, both candidates had the opportunity to present their cases for hosting the games. Jeollabuk-do’s Governor Kim Gwan-young and Seoul's Mayor Oh Se-hoon actively engaged the delegates with their presentations, each lasting around 45 minutes, followed by 15 minutes of questions and answers. Governor Kim emphasized the need for regional balance development, reinforcing the concept of solidarity among local cities. He described Jeollabuk-do’s proposal as not only economically beneficial but also culturally and environmentally aware, committing to host the ‘most economical, cultural, and environmentally friendly Olympics’ ever.
Oh Se-hoon championed Seoul's well-established infrastructure, citing the city’s successful hosting of the 1988 Summer Olympics as evidence of its capability. He remarked, “Seoul has the necessary facilities, including housing, transportation, and sports venues to create an environment conducive to hosting the games once again.” The Mayor argued strongly for his vision of leveraging Seoul’s experience and facilities, emphasizing the city’s position as the sixth most competitive metropolis worldwide.
Despite the odds stacked against them and the challenge of competing with Seoul’s established prestige and resources, Jeollabuk-do's delegates managed to sway the delegates' votes significantly. Their strategy focused on promoting local collaboration and engaging with nearby provinces, proposing to spread Olympic events through cities such as Daegu, Gwangju, and others to maximize regional involvement. This collective approach received positive reception, with Regional Assembly members signaling the need for keeping the Olympics’ legacy alive beyond just the main host city.
After the victorious announcement, Governor Kim expressed his gratitude and dedication by stating, “This victory is not just Jeollabuk-do's but symbolizes hope for balanced regional development across Korea. Our collaborative spirit with surrounding municipalities will form the pillars of this Olympic vision.” This significant endorsement reflects Jeollabuk-do’s commitment to uniting diverse communities for the Olympic vision.
The decision from the Korean Sports Council to favor Jeollabuk-do over Seoul has led to discussions about the broader social and economic impacts. With the prospect of creating jobs, boosting tourism, and fostering long-term growth in the region, interest is growing among both officials and residents. The public sentiment, which showed overwhelming support for the Olympics based on past surveys, indicates optimism about not only hosting the games but also reaping the associated benefits.
On the day of the vote, approximately 500 officials and supporters from both sides gathered outside the venue, waving placards and chanting their endorsements. There was palpable tension as the results unfolded, contrasting the high hopes of Seoul City and the underdog spirit of Jeollabuk-do.
This successful selection may breathe new life not only for Jeollabuk-do and its hosting ambitions but could also serve to ignite political aspirations for Mayor Oh Se-hoon, who is reportedly gearing up for the upcoming presidential elections. Leaders believe this event offers them another chance to unite the nation through sports, allowing the country to align with the values of friendship and peace emphasized by the Olympic Committee.
The broader international picture indicates growing competition to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. Other potential candidate cities such as Istanbul, Brisbane, and Santiago have also expressed ambition to host the Games, heightening the stakes for Jeollabuk-do as they prepare their proposal to submit to the International Olympic Committee.
Key figures were quick to note the international committee's shift toward constant negotiation over candidate city evaluation, indicating flexibility outside traditional timelines. The IOC’s intent to finalize host city selections within the year adds urgency to Jeollabuk-do's plans.
Despite the initial disappointment among Seoul supporters, as the recent election underscored the desire for the capital to reclaim its status as the leading venue for sports events, the city's administration remains committed to supporting the Korean Olympic Committee. Mayor Oh assured his continued cooperation with the committee to aid Jeollabuk-do’s bid, together focusing on elements of sustainable planning and inclusive global celebrations.
With global scrutiny and interest surrounding the Olympic bid, the next steps involve detailed planning and presentations to the IOC with the hopes of presenting Jeollabuk-do as the ideal candidate. The dream of hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics could mark the resurgence of regional pride and international stature for Jeollabuk-do and its collaborators.
Both cities, through this competitive process, have simultaneously shed light on how sports can unify regional disparities, inspire generations, and create lasting impacts beyond mere athletic achievements. What this means for South Korea and the legacy of the Olympic spirit remains to be seen as the nation aligns its aspirations for 2036 and beyond.