Message
Message
Dear esteemed yacht teams and officials from around the world, it is our great pleasure to welcome you to the 19th YISUNSIN CUP International Yacht Race.
First and foremost, I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to governor Park Wan-soo of Gyeongsangnam-do, chairman Chae Hee-sang of the Korea Sailing Federation, chairman Jung Won-joo of the Gyeongnam Sailing Federation, all members of the Gyeongnam Sailing Federation, as well as the volunteers and safety personnel who have dedicated themselves to the preparation and operation of this event.
Since its inaugural voyage in Tongyeong in 2007, this regatta has grown into Korea’s premier yacht race and one of Asia’s top three sailing competitions, opening a new horizon for marine sports.
Yacht racing is a highly strategic sport that confronts the unpredictability of nature - wind, waves, and ever-changing conditions. On the open sea, sailors constantly test their limits through swift decision-making and seamless teamwork, relying on skill and cooperation to prevail.
The waters off Hansan Island, the historic site of the legendary Battle of Hansan - hailed as one of the world’s four greatest naval battles - provide the perfect setting for yachting and marine leisure with their harmony of islands and sea, mild climate, and ideal sea breeze.
Recently, Tongyeong City was selected for the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ 'Integrated Marine Leisure Tourism City' initiative, and is now set to establish the largest marine tourism infrastructure in Korea. Furthermore, Tongyeong has been chosen as a stopover port for the prestigious 2025–26 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, drawing global attention from the international sailing community.
These milestones highlight Tongyeong’s emergence as a leading international marine leisure city. In addition, the city continues to strengthen its status as a hub for marine sports through initiatives such as the operation of the Tongyeong Yacht School, the construction of the Tongyeong Marina Business Center, and the expansion of marina facilities. Tongyeong also hosts a variety of marine sports festivals that reflect its unique character, including the Namhaean Cup International Yacht Race, windsurfing competitions, and the Tongyeong World Triathlon Cup.
Through this regatta, Tongyeong will once again take a leap forward as a global maritime city. I hope that all participating sailors will not only enjoy thrilling races on the beautiful waters of Tongyeong, but also fully experience the city’s rich culture, vibrant arts, captivating tourist attractions, and delicious local seafood - carrying with you the unforgettable charm of Tongyeong.
Your passion and spirit of challenge will make the waters of Tongyeong shine even brighter. We sincerely wish for a safe and successful regatta.
Thank you.
- Chun Young-gee,
- Mayor of Tongyeong City
Dear esteemed yacht sailors and officials from across the globe, united by a love for the sea, it is a great pleasure to welcome you to the 19th YISUNSIN CUP International Yacht Race, held in the historic waters of the Battle of Hansan. We sincerely appreciate your presence and participation in this meaningful event, where history and sailing come together in harmony.
First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Governor Park Wan-soo of Gyeongsangnam-do and Mayor Chun Young-gee of Tongyeong for hosting this prestigious event. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to Congressman Jeong Jeom-sig, President Chae Hee-sang of the Korea Sailing Federation, and Chairwoman Bae Do-soo of the Tongyeong City Council for their invaluable support in making this event possible.
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the members of the organizing committee and the related institutions for their dedicated efforts and support in ensuring the safe and successful operation of this event.
As one of Asia’s premier yachting events, the YISUNSIN CUP International Yacht Race draws numerous sailors from both Korea and abroad. This distinguished competition connects the historical and cultural legacy of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the Battle of Hansan with the dynamic spirit of marine leisure sports. By doing so, it enhances the national brand value of Korean yachting, promotes international sports exchange, and contributes to the growth of the marine leisure industry.
Building on this momentum, we have successfully secured both a team partnership and a host port partnership for the prestigious Clipper 2025–26 Round the World Yacht Race. As a result, Tongyeong will be proudly welcoming the race in March 2026. Furthermore, Team Tongyeong set sail from the United Kingdom this past August and is now circumnavigating the globe, proudly promoting Gyeongsangnam-do and Tongyeong to the world.
During the course of this event, I hope all participating athletes will fully enjoy the refreshing breeze and rich culture of Hallyeo waterway, along with its fresh seafood and local delicacies. May you create lasting memories and sail a magnificent race toward the YISUNSIN CUP, with safety as your top priority.
I wish good health and happiness to all those joining us for this event, and we wholeheartedly support your passion and dedication.
Thank you.
- Jung Won-joo,
- Chairman of the competition