Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province announced that it successfully hosted the opening ceremony of the 4th International Science-Based Combat Competition at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 14, at the Inje Natural Grass Stadium. Co-hosted by the provincial government, the Republic of Korea Army Headquarters, the Korea Combat Training Center (KCTC), and Inje County, the event brings together military personnel and civilians in a comprehensive public-private-military integration format designed to showcase advanced defense technologies and foster international military cooperation.

Marking its fourth iteration this year, the competition serves as a premier global military exchange platform where elite combatants from around the world put their practical combat skills to the test using South Korea's cutting-edge science-based combat systems. The event is broadly split into two primary segments: the international national-representation tournament and the civilian MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) survival tournament.

The national-representation competition runs from September 14 to September 18, featuring participants and observers from a combined total of 16 nations—a significant expansion from the 8 countries that participated last year. Specifically, seven nations are competing directly in the tactical events, including the United States, Australia, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, and Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, nine international entities are attending as official observers, comprising Greece, Mexico, Turkey, Egypt, the Philippines, Malaysia, Turkmenistan, Hungary, and NATO. Following this international showcase, the civilian MILES competition will take place over the weekend from September 19 to September 20. Out of an overwhelming 106 civilian survival club teams that applied, 40 teams were selected through a rigorous drawing system to compete fiercely at the KCTC urban combat training grounds.

The grand opening ceremony featured a rich array of dynamic programs and spectacles for local residents and general visitors. Highlights included a flight demonstration by an Army aviation formation, an impressive performance by the military band and honor guard, hands-on exhibitions of advanced science-based combat equipment, and displays of cutting-edge military hardware, supplies, and technology by certified defense venture enterprises based in Gangwon. These interactive exhibits provided attendees with a rare, firsthand look at the future of modern defense science and technology.

Local authorities emphasized the growing global stature and regional significance of the event. Choi Young-taek, Director of the National Defense Economy Promotion Bureau of Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, noted that it is deeply meaningful to see elite soldiers from across the globe gather in Gangwon to test their tactical prowess using South Korea’s state-of-the-art equipment. He added that the competition's expanding scale and international interest highlight its rising status, and affirmed that the province will continue to work in close coordination with Inje County and the ROK Army to build a robust foundation for mutual growth and prosperity between local communities and the military.

To further supplement the background of this event, the science-based combat training system utilized in these competitions relies on laser engagement technology, which accurately tracks hits and casualties without live ammunition, maximizing safety while simulating real-world combat environments with high fidelity. Inje County, known for hosting the Army's premier combat training facilities, continues to leverage such international military events to boost local economic vitality, promote regional tourism, and establish itself as a central hub for South Korea's defense industry innovation and military diplomacy.

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