International Canoe Federation President Thomas Konietzko has identified Seoul in South Korea as an exciting potential venue for future international paddling events during a visit to the country.
Mr Konietzko met the Mayor of Seoul, Oh Se-hoon, and Korea’s deputy sports minister, Cho Yongman, as part of his attendance at the 40th anniversary of the Korean Canoe Federation`s Presidents Cup, which was also qualification for the Korean Asian Games team.
During his meetings Mr Konietzko discussed canoeing activities in Korea and the potential for further expansion of the sport.
“During my meeting with the Mayor we discussed the strength of the Olympic movement, and talked a lot about the number of excellent, high-class venues which are available in Korea to host canoeing events,” Mr Konietzko said.
“Mayor Se-hoon expressed interest in hosting a SUP event on the Han River, which would be a fantastic competition at this venue.”
Mr Konietzko and Mayor Se-hoon also talked about the potential of smart-city development, and how the Han River could become the centre for recreational boat activity, along similar lines to E-scooters. The pair agreed to keep conversations going and to look how similar projects could be adopted by the ICF.
Mr Konietzko discussed preparations for the Asian Games and canoeing activities throughout Korea with deputy sports minister, Cho Yongman. He also met World Taekwondo President, Chungwon Choue, and discussed preparations for the Olympic Games, and issues associated with Russian and Belarussian athletes.
