Revitalizing Sports Events for National Balanced Development: A Study on the Transformation of the National Sports Festival Venue

PURPOSE This study presents a policy proposal to integrate the National Sports Festival and sport-specific competitions into a broader national balanced development plan, particularly targeting regions facing potential obsolescence. METHODS Applying both balanced growth theory and unbalanced growth theory, we analyzed the issue through a comprehensive review of the literature, encompassing both domestic and international cases. RESULTS Our findings lead to several key conclusions and policy recommendations. Firstly, we recommend the relocation of the National Sports Festival hosting rights to regions at risk of becoming obsolete. Secondly, we propose the designation of specific venues for each sport event. Thirdly, we emphasize the development of sports events that uniquely characterize specific regions. Fourthly, we suggest engaging local residents of host cities to form a robust sports event support staff. Fifthly, we advocate for the enhancement of local accommodation facilities. Lastly, we envision the transformation of the National Sports Festival into a “Korea Open” event. CONCLUSIONS This study holds significance in its contribution to national balanced development through the strategic utilization of sports events, such as national sports festivals.