Excitement is building in Tongyeong as the city prepares to host the 16th Tongyeong Mayor’s Cup National Turtle Ship Rowing Competition, the centerpiece of the upcoming 64th Tongyeong Hansan Battle Festival.

With 50 teams from towns, townships, and organizations across the country registered to participate, the competition is expected to take place amid unprecedented enthusiasm and regional unity.

Scheduled for Saturday, August 9, at the Jukrim Bay Special Marine Stadium, this year’s event promises to be more thrilling and inclusive than ever before.

The race features teams rowing traditional turtle ship-shaped boats, paying tribute to Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s legendary naval victory at the Battle of Hansan.

Under the theme “Hansando!! The First Tongjeongyeong!”, the competition celebrates Korea’s maritime heritage and the valor of the Joseon navy.

This year’s rowing competition is drawing increased national attention, with numerous teams from across Korea participating. What was once a local tradition has now evolved into a symbol of intergenerational and regional harmony, reinforcing the importance of preserving traditional maritime culture through dynamic community events.

In addition to the Mayor’s Cup, the festival will kick off on August 8 with the 6th Gyeongsangnam-do Tongyeong Office of Education Director’s Cup Rowing Competition, featuring student teams from local elementary, middle, and high schools.

The weeklong Hansan Battle Festival will run from August 8 to 14, bringing together history, culture, and community pride in one of Korea’s most historic port cities.

Fleet Chinhae

USAG Daegu