BUSAN — The City of Busan announced significant economic and tourism milestones following its performance review for the 2026 Seven Bridge Tour, which successfully concluded on September 20. Highlighting robust international participation, zero safety incidents, and substantial economic impact, the city has reaffirmed its capability to host world-class mega-events.

Now in its second year, the event has rapidly cemented its status as a premier global attraction. Featuring an innovative cycling course across Busan’s iconic marine bridges—including the landmark Gwangandaegyo Bridge—the tour sold out within just two minutes of opening registration for the second consecutive year.

Drawing approximately 5,000 participants from both South Korea and abroad, the event recorded an impressive 97 percent completion rate without a single major safety incident. Notably, the tour expanded its global footprint by attracting 212 international participants and fostering international sports exchanges with Ehime Prefecture, Japan. Beyond competitive cycling for enthusiasts, the festival offered inclusive community programs, such as a scenic walk across Gwangandaegyo Bridge and a free-riding event, creating an engaging festival atmosphere for all.

According to data analytics and surveys from the Korea Tourism Organization, the event generated an estimated 4.98 billion won in production-inducement effects and 2.31 billion won in value-added effects, injecting vibrant energy into the local economy.

Busan’s regional tourism sales reached 352.9 billion won during the event period (September 11–21), marking a 13.1 percent increase year-over-year. External visitor numbers also peaked for September at approximately 1.05 million.

Out-of-town participants, who accounted for 70 percent of the total entrants, spent an average of approximately 440,000 won per person—a 12.9 percent increase from the previous year. In particular, September figures showed a rise in overnight visitors from other regions (surpassing 658,000) and a 3.9 percentage point increase in long-term stays of two nights or more, demonstrating clear success in driving stay-over tourism.

City officials noted that these results were driven by strategic tie-ins with major local attractions, such as Busan X the Sky and the Songdo Marine Cable Car, which naturally encouraged participants to extend their stays and increase local spending.

Looking ahead, Busan plans to build upon this year's momentum by combining the event with local accommodations, gastronomy, sightseeing, and commercial districts to create high-value tourism packages, fostering a sustainable global sports tourism ecosystem.

"Through this event, we have witnessed the profound economic ripple effects of sports tourism," said Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo. "We will continue to develop Busan into a dynamic city where travelers can enjoy sports and tourism all year round, creating sustainable growth engines for the future."

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]