Changnyeong County to Host the 20th Changnyeong Bugok Oncheon Marathon

Changnyeong County in South Gyeongsang Province will hold the 20th Changnyeong Bugok Oncheon Marathon on March 14, 2026, at Changnyeong Sports Park and along the Nakdong River, with more than 6,000 runners from across the country expected to participate.

Now in its 20th year, this marathon is hosted by the Changnyeong County Sports Council and organized by the Gyeongnam Newspaper. It has established itself as Korea’s leading hot spring marathon festival that marks the arrival of spring.

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The event features three categories: half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km. Participants will start at Changnyeong Sports Park and run against the scenic backdrop of the gently flowing Nakdong River.

In particular, as the entire course is composed of gentle flat terrain, the event is expected to attract broad participation from elite runners aiming for personal bests, as well as beginners and families new to marathon running.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary, a “Five Senses Satisfied Festival” packed with sights, food, and entertainment has been prepared to provide participants with a wide range of benefits. All runners will receive a pass for the Bugok Oncheon hot spring, which boasts the highest water temperature in Korea at 78°C, allowing them to relax and recover after the race.

At the venue, a variety of side events will enhance the festival atmosphere, including a food market (serving dishes such as tofu with kimchi), photo zones, face painting, prize draws, appearances by marathon stars, and local agricultural product sales.

The 20th Changnyeong Bugok Oncheon Marathon Held. Provided by Changnyeong County

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This year, the Changnyeong County Government’s women’s cycling team, which is enhancing the city’s reputation as a cyclist-friendly destination, will provide on-site support.

The team will operate stations for sports cooling spray application (such as Air Pass), professional muscle relaxation massage coaching, and athlete-grade bike experiences, offering participants unique enjoyment and specialized recovery support services.

A county official stated, “As this is a meaningful 20th edition of the marathon, we are prioritizing safety management above all else. We hope participants will enjoy the spring atmosphere of the Nakdong River, strengthen their health, and create precious memories as they heal at Bugok Oncheon.”

Meanwhile, on the day of the event, the county will implement phased and full traffic control from 9 a.m. around the venue and along the marathon course (including Changnyeong Sports Park, Onjeong Intersection, Imhae Jin Samgeori, and Changnyeong Hamanbo), and has requested the active cooperation of local residents and visitors.

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