KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 11

The Global Sport Tourism Convention held in South Korea brought together industry leaders, government officials, and academics to discuss the latest trends and practices in sport tourism.

With a focus on sustainable strategies and green initiatives, the convention aimed to explore how the industry can contribute to the development of local communities while minimizing its environmental impact.

The convention began with a warm welcome address from Dr. Ki-jeong Lee, the President of Hanyang University. Dr. Lee emphasized the importance of sport tourism in promoting cultural exchange and economic growth. He expressed his hope that the convention would serve as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration among participants.

Following the welcome address, Mr. Binod Kunwar, Chair of the Global NRN Foundation, delivered the opening remarks. He highlighted the role of the Nepalese diaspora in driving sustainable tourism development.

The convention also featured congratulatory remarks from distinguished guests, including State Minister for Tourism Sushila Sirpali Thakuri, Ambassador of Nepal in Korea Prof. Dr. Jyoti Pyakuryal, Member Secretary of the National Sports Council Tanka Lal Ghising, Ambassador of Pakistan in Kore Nabeel MUNIR, and Ambassador of Cambodia in Korea CHRING Botumrangsay. Their presence at the convention demonstrated the commitment of their respective governments to promoting sport tourism as a means of economic and social development.

Keynote speeches were delivered by Dr. Shesh Ghale, Patron of the Global NRNA Foundation/NRNA ICC, and Dr. Seongno Lee, Dean of the College of Performing Arts & Sports at Hanyang University. These speeches provided valuable insights into the role of sports in promoting tourism and the potential for collaboration between South Korea and Nepal in this regard.

The convention was divided into three sessions, each focusing on a different aspect of sport tourism. The first session, chaired by Dr. Hoon Lee from the Graduate School of International Tourism at Hanyang University, explored the relationship between tourism and industry. Prof. Hyounggon Kim from Sejong University presented a case study on tourism product development in South Korea, highlighting the lessons and trends that can be applied to other destinations.

Bhoma Devi Limbu, Vice-President of the Global NRN Foundation, spoke about the potential of the Nepalese diaspora in driving sustainable tourism development. Krishna Kumari Shrestha, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation in Nepal, discussed the practices and potentials of sports tourism in Nepal. Seong Bu-Seop, CEO of Daelim Monorail, presented on the autonomous driving monorail system, emphasizing its potential as a multipurpose transportation solution for sport tourism destinations.

The second session, chaired by Prof. David O'Sullivan from Pusan National University, focused on the intersection of sports and industry. Prof. Sungmin Kim from Hanyang University discussed the role of digital sports healthcare in addressing the challenges of an aging population in South Korea.

AC Sherpa, Honorary Consul General of the Government of Nepal for the USA, presented on adventure sports promotion, specifically cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and paragliding & 7 Summit in 42 climbing days and establishment of 7Summit Foundation & philanthropy work. Shyam Tamang, Director at the Nrna Global Foundation and twice golf champion at the world's highest golf course, shared his experiences with adventure tourism, Nepal Golf course & World highest Course in Nepal, he has shown short video of EQ 2015 Nrna Relief work of 47 days, Reconstruction of Nrna Laprak Model Village 602 house by Dr Shesh Ghale & Team, Saptari 2017 Flood victim Relief distribution for 5000 family by Dr Shesh Ghale & Nrna Team, Landslide of Lidi & Jure Relief work by Nrna & EQ 2023 Rukum & Jajarkot Relief material distribution.

The third session, chaired by Dr. Dongwoon Han from Hanyang University, focused on sustainable strategies and green initiatives. Prof. Sewan Choi from Seoul National University of Science & Technology discussed trends in electric vehicle (EV) charging and key technological developments. Jamuna Gurung, Founder & Director of the MIT Group Foundation, explored the transition to a green economy and the opportunities it presents for sustainable development in the areas of climate, energy, and food security.

Throughout the convention, panel discussions and Q&A sessions provided opportunities for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas. The convention concluded with MOU and distribution of certificates and recognition to all participants, acknowledging their contributions to the advancement of sport tourism.

The Global Sport Tourism Convention in South Korea served as a platform for innovation and collaboration, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to explore the potential of sport tourism in driving sustainable development. By sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative ideas, the convention paved the way for future advancements in the industry and highlighted the importance of responsible and environmentally friendly tourism practices.