Judo Dream Trees: Tour of Jincheon National Training Center

JEONGSEON, July 1, 2025

From Abandoned Mines to Olympic Dreams

Aspiring judokas get a taste of elite training.

• Youths from former mining towns participated in a judo training program.
• The program included guidance from national team athletes.
• Kangwon Land supports the initiative to develop young talent.
• Local schools are seeing success in producing young athletes.

the “Dream Tree Hope Experience” program, supported by Kangwon Land, gave 26 young judokas a unique prospect, and what is the program about? It connects youth from abandoned mine communities with national-level judo athletes for training and mentorship. the initiative aims to inspire and develop the next generation of judo stars.

Youth athletes receiving instruction from national team player Song Woo-hyuk at the Jincheon Athletes’ Village.

Did you know? – Judo,meaning “gentle way,” originated in Japan in the late 19th century. It emphasizes using an opponent’s weight and momentum against them.

Stepping into the National Arena

The young athletes visited the Chungbuk Jincheon National Athlete’s Village. They toured facilities like the fitness room and medical center, meeting national team athletes and feeling the energy of a high-performance surroundings.

Adding to the experience, judo national team members, including Kim Chan-nyeong from the Kangwon Land High1 Sports Team, served as daily coaches. This hands-on mentorship provided invaluable guidance to the aspiring athletes.

Pro tip: – Consistent practice and dedication are key to success in judo. Focus on mastering fundamental techniques and building a strong physical foundation.

A Dream Takes Shape

One participant, Jeong Soo-hyun, 12, from Sabukcho, expressed his excitement. “I think I have been close to the dream of being a judo national team,” he said, highlighting the program’s impact on his aspirations.

Kangwon Land, as a social enterprise, provides financial backing to schools in abandoned mining areas.This support helps create opportunities for young people in these communities.

cultivating talent in Jeongseon

Jeongseon Sabuk Elementary School and Middle School are emerging as judo powerhouses. The schools have produced a significant number of “dream trees” and youth national team members,including five elementary school students and three youth representatives.

Judo Dream Tree program at the Jincheon National athlete’s Village.

Reader question: – what other sports could benefit from similar mentorship programs connecting aspiring athletes with national-level professionals? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Building a Foundation for Success

According to Choi Chul-kyu, Kangwon Land established a comprehensive judo development system. This includes supporting the founding of the Sabuk High School Judo Department last year, ensuring a pathway for aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams.

The Ripple Effect: Beyond the Mat

The “dream Tree hope Experience” exemplifies how a focused initiative, like this judo program in Jeongseon, can revitalize communities. Supporting youth judo, as Kangwon Land is doing, has far-reaching consequences. It’s more than just sports; it represents a beacon of hope in areas grappling with economic challenges adn social isolation. Initiatives like these provide more than athletic training, they instill discipline, build self-esteem, and possibly steer young people away from negative behaviors that can sometimes proliferate in struggling communities.

This program offers real-world opportunities for these youths, and its success hinges on community backing. What’s the most important thing in judo? Discipline, training, and determination. By partnering with schools and providing national team athlete mentorship, it creates a nurturing habitat. This builds a strong foundation for future success in all areas of life, not just judo.

Financial backing, as provided by Kangwon Land, enables these programs to flourish. The investment provides equipment, coaching, and travel opportunities, helping these young athletes compete. These resources level the playing field, enabling talented young individuals from underserved areas to compete with their peers.

Actionable Steps for Supporting Youth Sports

Here’s how you can champion similar programs in your area:

• Donate: Funds for equipment, travel, and training can make a massive difference.
• Volunteer: Offer your time as a coach,mentor,or event organizer.
• Advocate: Encourage schools and community organizations to start or expand sports programs.
• Sponsor: Local businesses can sponsor young athletes or teams.
• Raise Awareness: Spread the word about the positive impact of youth sports.

Myth vs. Fact: Judo and Youth Development

Let’s dispel some common misconceptions:

Myth: Judo is only for the naturally athletic.

Fact: Judo is a sport anyone can learn, regardless of their starting point.The emphasis on technique and strategy means that dedication, effort, and solid coaching are more critically important than raw athleticism.

Myth: Judo is a violent sport for aggressive individuals.

fact: Judo instills discipline, respect, and self-control. It is more about finding the gentle way, and judo emphasizes the value of using an opponent’s power against them, not brute strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about youth sports programs:

Can’t afford judo lessons or equipment?

many community programs offer scholarships and financial aid, and gently used equipment can frequently enough be obtained. Look for local support.

What if my child isn’t naturally athletic?

Judo is a sport where perseverance and strategic thinking, along with athleticism can create success.

How can my child make new friends?

The camaraderie of a judo club or team fosters friendships. Judo clubs often host social events.