Travel
Changwon to host national stand-up paddleboard championship at Gwangam Beach
Haps Magazine Korea
July 14, 2026
(Photo by Changwon Special City/courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
Changwon will host the 2026 Korea Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Championship at Gwangam Beach in Masanhappo-gu from July 18–19, bringing athletes and spectators together for a weekend of competition and waterfront activities.
The event, sponsored by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, aims to promote marine leisure sports and expand participation in stand-up paddleboarding while highlighting Changwon’s growing reputation as a marine tourism destination.
The championship returns to Gwangam Beach for the first time since 2022 after being held at Jinhaeru in 2025.
Competition begins on July 18 following athlete registration and an opening ceremony at 1:30 p.m., with races continuing through July 19.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of side events during the championship, including a marine environmental campaign, SUP-themed photo zones, and hands-on marine safety experiences.
The competition is part of Gwangam Beach’s summer program, with the beach open for the season through August 23.
Throughout the summer, the city plans to offer a range of cultural events and recreational activities alongside its beach operations, giving visitors more reasons to spend time on the waterfront.