Hwang Cheol-gyu calls on Seoul to anchor international youth sports diplomacy
Tournament aims to become a regular annual event in Seoul
Hwang Cheol-gyu, chairman of the Seoul Metropolitan Council's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee (People Power Party, Seongdong 4), said he hopes the international youth hockey tournament will help young athletes sharpen their skills and experience the values of exchange and unity through sport.
Hwang delivered congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Seoul World Youth Hockey Tournament, held Sunday at a specially built arena in Jamwon Han River Park. Athletes from six countries and regions, including Seoul and Beijing, are competing in the tournament, which runs through Friday.
Hwang said competing against players from around the world and sharing different cultures and experiences through international competition could be a formative experience for the next generation.
He said he particularly hoped that athletes from Seoul, Beijing and other participating delegations would use hockey as a bridge to build friendships and deepen mutual understanding beyond wins and losses. He added that international sports events should serve not only to raise the level of young athletes' play but also as platforms connecting nations and cities.
Hwang said the council would continue to support Seoul's efforts to host international sports events and create an environment where young athletes can compete on the world stage. He urged participants to play safely and perform well, adding, "I hope this will be a meaningful tournament where everyone learns from one another and grows, beyond just winning or losing."
7toy7@heraldcorp.com
