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▲ Bird’s eye view of Suncheon City’s 2026 lifestyle-friendly national sports center |
Suncheon City secured 5 billion won in national funding on December 26th for a groundbreaking new sports complex, poised to become a hub for inclusive athletics in South Jeolla Province. The project, greenlit by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, promises a state-of-the-art facility designed for athletes of all abilities.
A Win for Inclusive Sports and Urban Development
The new center aims to integrate sports, culture, and residential living, creating a vibrant community space.
- Suncheon City will receive 5 billion won from the national government, supplementing 15 billion won in city funds.
- Construction is scheduled from 2026 to 2029.
- The complex will feature a 10-court badminton stadium, an aquatic exercise room, and specialized training facilities.
- The facility is designed to be fully accessible to both disabled and non-disabled athletes.
The city’s application, submitted last October, successfully navigated a rigorous selection process, passing initial document reviews in November and a final presentation screening in December. According to city officials, the project directly addresses the growing need for expanded public sports facilities as Suncheon continues its urban development.
The new sports center will be located in Yeonhyangdeul and will serve as a cornerstone for a self-sufficient urban center blending cultural tourism, residential areas, and athletic opportunities. The facility’s design prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring that athletes with disabilities have equal access to training and competition.
What types of facilities will be included in the new sports center? The planned complex will boast a dedicated badminton stadium with ten courts, an underwater exercise room, a specialized badminton training center, and a cutting-edge “smart” badminton court. Detailed plans will be finalized in consultation with the Suncheon City Sports Association for the Disabled, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and other relevant professional organizations.
“The Yeonhyangdeul Bandabi National Sports Center (tentative name) will be a space where people with disabilities can participate in sports activities without restrictions, and an inclusive sports facility where all citizens can get along,” stated a Suncheon City official. “We will strive to make Suncheon a sports hub city in the south coast and south central region while providing sports welfare that satisfies citizens.”
The total project cost is estimated at 20 billion won, with construction slated to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2029.
The project represents a significant investment in the region’s athletic infrastructure and a commitment to providing accessible sports opportunities for all residents. Suncheon City anticipates the new center will not only enhance the quality of life for its citizens but also establish the city as a leading sports destination in the southern region of the country.
