*This content was translated by AI.
Ahead of the opening of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Summer Asian Games, the South Korean delegation has launched diplomatic efforts to ensure local safety and successful participation in the event.
According to the Korean Sports Council on the 11th, Lee Sang-hyun, head of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Korean delegation (Korean SocietyLee Keul-yeon-maeng (Chairman)·Auditor of the Korean Sports Council), visited the Japanese Embassy in Korea on the morning of the 7th to meet with Ambassador Koichi Mizushima. He requested assurances for the safety of the athletes and support for their convenience during the games.
This visit was arranged to strengthen sports exchange and cooperation between South Korea and Japan ahead of the Asian Games, scheduled to take place from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya City, Japan.
The head of the delegation expressed deep condolences for recent natural disasters—including heavy rains, typhoons, and earthquakes—that have struck various parts of Japan, and prayed for a swift recovery. He added, "The Asian Games is a festival where athletes from across Asia come together through sports." He continued, "We hope it becomes an event where athletes are not hurt by political issues or external conflicts but instead share friendship. We kindly ask the Japanese side for special support and consideration to allow our athletes to compete with peace of mind."
He also shared plans to expand private and cultural exchanges through the 'Korea House,' which will operate during the games. The head of the delegation stated, "Cultural exchange is just as important as sports," and added, "We will operate the Korea House as a space where officials and citizens from both countries can come together in harmony."
Ambassador Mizushima responded, "We will pay special attention to the safety of the South Korean delegation." On political matters, he said, "We hope both countries will handle these issues wisely," emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding. He also remarked, "It was impressive to see the head of the delegation communicating directly with athletes and building a 'One Team Korea' spirit," and expressed shared wishes for the success of both Korean and Japanese delegations.
Having served as deputy head of the South Korean delegation at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and the 2024 Paris Olympics, Lee Sang-hyun is focusing on on-site communication to fully prepare for the upcoming games.
Meanwhile, South Korea plans to send a large delegation of 1,052 athletes across 41 sports events to the 20th Aichi-Nagoya Summer Asian Games.
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*This content was translated by AI.
