About the Race

Yisunsin Cup International Yacht Race

Message

Yacht family Welcome to Tongyeong City.

Greetings from Mayor Cheon Young-gee of Tongyeong.

A warm welcome to all esteemed yachtsmen, officials, and guests joining us from Korea and around the world for the 18th Yisunsin Cup International Yacht Race. It is a pleasure to host this prestigious event in Tongyeong, Korea’s central marine tourism city on the southern coast.

First, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Gyeongnam Province Governor Park Wan-soo, whose dedication and support have been invaluable in organizing this event, as well as to Korea Sailing Federation Chairman Park Bum-kyu and Gyeongsangnam-do Sailing Federation Chariman Lee Sang-seok for their tireless efforts in making this race possible.

Since its inception in 2007, the Yisunsin Cup International Yacht Race has grown into Korea’s premier yachting event and is now proudly recognized as one of Asia’s top three yacht competitions.

Our venue, the Hansan Sea, holds special historical significance as the site of Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s celebrated Battle of Hansan—a naval triumph counted among the world’s four greatest sea battles. The area’s natural beauty, gentle climate, and mild sea breezes make it a perfect setting for yachting and marine leisure.

Our city is committed to the ocean as a growth engine for the future, and Tongyeong has taken steps to promote the yacht industry and marine leisure sports. With facilities like the Tongyeong Yacht School and the new Marine Sports Center, we’re actively supporting the development of marine leisure industries. Additionally, Tongyeong hosts a variety of marine events—including the Windsurfing Competition and the Tongyeong World Triathlon Cup—that highlight our city’s unique coastal environment.

To expand Tongyeong’s potential even further, we are also enhancing marina facilities in our island areas to meet the growing demand for marine tourism, positioning our city as a leader in leisure sports and tourism. These efforts are central to reinforcing Tongyeong’s identity as a premier hub for marine activities.

To all participants and their families,
We hope you enjoy a fantastic race on the beautiful waters of Tongyeong. Please take this opportunity to explore our city’s vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and delicious cuisine. May Tongyeong, a city of endless charm, leave you with memories to cherish.

Thank you.

Mayor of Tongyeong City
Cheon Yeong Gee

Greetings to all esteemed yachtsmen, officials, and sea enthusiasts from around the world.

It is a pleasure to warmly welcome each of you to the 18th Yisunsin Cup International Yacht Race, proudly hosted in Tongyeong, Korea’s premier city for marine tourism.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gyeongsangnam-do Governor Park Wan-soo, whose steadfast support has been invaluable to the success of yachting events in Gyeongnam, and to Mayor Cheon Young-gee of Tongyeong, who has helped establish this city as a distinguished yachting destination. We also wish to acknowledge National Assembly member Jeong Jeom-sig, Korea Sailing Federation Chairman Park Bum-kyu, and Gyeongsangnam-do Provincial Council Chairman Choi Hak-beom, as well as Tongyeong City Council Chairman Bae Do-soo, for their critical support in bringing this event to life.

Our thanks extend as well to the organizing committee members and Tongyeong Coast Guard Chief Lee Sang-in, whose generous support has ensured that this competition will be managed safely and efficiently.

The Yisunsin Cup International Yacht Race, now in its 18th year, stands as one of Asia’s foremost yachting events. Held in the historic waters where Admiral Yi Sun-sin achieved his great victory at the Battle of Hansan, this race honors his patriotic spirit. Through this event, we not only celebrate a legacy of resilience but also foster marine tourism by combining historical and cultural experiences with premier yachting competition. It is a privilege to see the Yisunsin Cup elevate Korea’s international yachting reputation, strengthen sports exchange, and contribute to the vitality of our nation’s sporting culture.

Moreover, we are thrilled to announce that Korea will host the ‘2025-2026 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race’ for the first time. This landmark event is expected to fuel further growth in the Yisunsin Cup and boost the marine leisure and tourism industries, drawing global yachting enthusiasts to Tongyeong, Gyeongsangnam-do, and showcasing the city’s rich offerings.

We hope each of you takes the opportunity to enjoy the fresh breezes, vibrant culture, and delightful cuisine along the Hallyeo Waterway, and that all participants enjoy a safe and fulfilling experience as they demonstrate their skill and passion in the Yisunsin Cup.

We wish all of you health, success, and memorable experiences throughout this competition.

Thank you.

Chairman of the competition
Lee Sang Seok