Translation result.
The 2026 Hwacheon DMZ Rally, which traces the northernmost civilian control line, returned with a lively crowd and plenty of buzz.
Held on the 17th around the Hwacheon Peace Dam and adjacent civilian control line, the event drew roughly 3,000 cycling fans from across the country, each eager to ride a pristine, scenic route.
This year, after the Defense Ministry moved the civilian control line northward near the Peace Dam, organizers ran the race without separate checkpoint inspections.
Riders tackled a roughly 73 km (45.4-mile) route that crosses the civilian control line and highlights untouched natural scenery — a major draw for cycling enthusiasts.
The measured course is about 71.35 km (44.35 miles). The stretch from the start at Hwacheon Sports for All Park’s main stadium to the Hwacheon Youth Center functioned as a non-competitive parade segment.
County officials and event staff were stationed across the venue and along the routes to manage safety and logistics.
Hwacheon County gave every participant a Hwacheon Love gift certificate worth 10,000 KRW (approximately $7.50), redeemable only in Hwacheon — a move organizers say should give the local economy a welcome boost.
Reporter Han Yun-sik nssysh@kukinews.com
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