Bucheon International 10km Road Race Celebrates International Women’s Day with Cosplay and Community
Bucheon City, Gyeonggi Province, hosted the “2026 Bucheon International 10km Road Race” on March 8, featuring a special campaign to commemorate International Women’s Day. The event, which included a 3.5km health run and a certified 10km course, saw participation from citizens and employees of the Bucheon Women and Youth Foundation, who engaged in a “Cosplay Run” to promote solidarity and awareness.
International Certification and Event Details
The Bucheon Marathon has been rebranded as the “Bucheon International 10km Road Race” after receiving international certification. This certification ensures that participants’ records are officially recognized and aims to elevate the event’s prestige. The race featured two categories: a 10km internationally certified course and a 3.5km health run.
Cosplay Run and Community Engagement
Employees of the Bucheon Women and Youth Foundation participated in the 3.5km health run with a themed “Cosplay Run,” donning costumes symbolizing ‘bread and roses’ – a traditional emblem of International Women’s Day. This initiative aimed to encourage voluntary participation and create a vibrant atmosphere. A photo zone, small-scale events and awards were also available for participants.
Women’s and Youth Empowerment Zones
Beyond the race course, “Women’s Power Zone” and “Youth Power Zone” areas, operated in collaboration with local facilities like the Bucheon City Women’s Center, offered spaces for intergenerational communication. These zones hosted an exhibition on the history of female workers’ struggles, a photo booth with ‘Roses and Bread’ props, a gender equality quiz, and a youth health promotion game.
Local Support and Foundation Commitment
The campaign received support from local organizations, including Bucheon Five Orthodox Church and Chacha Women’s Clinic, which provided energy bars and purple handkerchiefs to support the health rights of women and youth. Lee Kang-in, CEO of the Bucheon Women and Youth Foundation, emphasized the event as a “powerful march” towards a more equitable society and pledged continued efforts to address gender inequality.
Lee Bongjoo’s Participation
Former national marathoner Lee Bongjoo participated in the race as a pacemaker, fulfilling a commitment made after his involvement in the “Lee Bongjoo Recovery Marathon” in Bucheon in 2021.
Registration for the event was open to all citizens until January 23 through the official event website.