551 International Runners on Cherry Blossom Paths... Tourism Organization Strengthens Gyeongju Marathon Marketing

Attracting 82% of All International Runners Directly

Targeting Major Asian Cities... Expanding the K-Marathon Brand

The Korea Tourism Organization has attracted 551 international tourists through the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon, expanding its efforts to promote K-sports tourism.

According to the Korea Tourism Organization on April 2, the organization has brought in 551 international tourists to participate in the 33rd Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon, which will be held on April 4. This number accounts for approximately 82% of all foreign runners in this year's event.

In response to the global running trend, the organization conducted marketing campaigns in major Asian cities such as Manila, Bangkok, Beijing, Taipei, Hong Kong, and Fukuoka. As a result, the number of overseas participants increased by 50% compared to last year.

The organization promoted the unique appeal of this year's marathon, highlighting the opportunity to run along cherry blossom paths and landmarks in Gyeongju, a city dense with UNESCO World Heritage sites.

On-site support for international participants will also be strengthened. The organization secured marathon entry tickets in advance and will operate a dedicated desk at the Gyeongju Hilton Hotel on April 3, the day before the event, to provide information about Gyeongju and nearby tourist attractions. Race packs and souvenirs will also be distributed at this venue. On the day of the marathon, interpreters will be stationed at the event site to ensure smooth participation for foreign runners.

Ban Hocheol, Head of the Theme Content Team at the Korea Tourism Organization, stated, "The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon is an ideal sports tourism event where visitors can experience Korea's beautiful nature and history together." He added, "We will continue to develop region-specific content and events targeting runners from around the world and expand them into high-value-added tourism products to help revitalize the local economy."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.