Asian Games torch lights up Seoul
One of the torch bearers runs along Sejongdae-ro with Gwanghwamun as a backdrop, in Seoul on September 16.
The torch for the Incheon Asian Games 2014 arrived in Seoul on September 16, three days ahead of the games’ opening ceremony. The torch relay crossed 17 Korean provinces and cities and was finally handed over to film director Lee Min-yong, the first bearer in Seoul, at Sinchon Railway Station.
From there, Lee ran about 500 meters toward the intersection in front of Yonsei University. The flame then traveled through Gwanghwamun, Jongno, Myeongdong and Sogongdong, before arriving at Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall.
Around Gwanghwamun, the torch relay sparked the interest of many passers-by and drivers. Enthusiastic citizens took out their phones to take a picture of the meaningful moment.
Participants in the torch relay for the Asian Games cross a street along Sejongdae-ro as they head toward Jongno on September 16.
Torch bearer Park Seon-kyu, leader of the torch relay squad, arrives at Seoul Plaza alongside handball coach Lim Oh-kyung on September 16.
As the torch toured downtown Seoul, it was finally handed over to the last torch bearer, Park Seon-kyu, leader of the relay, who stood alongside handball coach Lim Oh-kyung in front of City Hall. The torch was welcomed by roars, cheers and camera flashes as it was passed over to Seoul Mayor Park Wonsoon. A stationary flame was then lit in front of City Hall.
Seoul Mayor Park Wonsoon lights the flame in Seoul Plaza on September 16.
The torch is set to arrive in Songdo in southern Incheon on September 17 via Gangnam-gu District in southern Seoul. It will arrive in Incheon proper on the 18th and will finally, at the opening ceremony, celebrate the beginning of one of the biggest sporting festivals across Asia on the 19th.
By Jeon Han, Lee Seung-ah
Korea.net staff writers
Photos: Jeon Han
hanjeon@korea.kr