Seomun Market in Jung District, Daegu / Courtesy of Daegu City
With the World Masters Athletics Championships (WMAC) 2026 slated for Daegu this August, the city is getting ready to welcome athletes with more than just a venue for demonstrating their physical prowess, preparing a slate of exciting activities around town. Beyond the track, the city has put together a broad range of tours, cultural experiences and discounts for the some 11,000 athletes and family members from 90 countries expected at the event running from Aug. 22 to Sept. 3.
Headlining the program are three daytime tours running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., each winding through a different part of the city and mixing traditional landmarks with trending spots.
The art tour visits some of Daegu's most iconic cultural landmarks, including Kansong Art Museum Daegu, home to an extensive collection of Korea's cultural heritage, and 83 Tower, a skyscraper offering sweeping views of downtown Daegu.
The modern history tour explores the city's historic downtown, including Seomun Market, its largest traditional marketplace.
The nature tour heads to Mount Palgong, where the Palgongsan Cable Car carries visitors up to 820 meters above sea level, with panoramic views of the Daegu cityscape stretching out below.
An evening tour, designed with summer heat in mind, runs from 4 to 9 p.m. and offers two routes. One centers on Suseong Lake, known for its scenic nighttime views, and 83 Tower; the other takes in Mount Ap Observatory, where the Nakdong River curves into view alongside layers of mountain ridges embracing the city, and its lively cafe district.
Daegu's two counties have also put together their own tour programs. Dalseong County runs a four full-day tours on weekends to visit the historic Nampyeong Moon Clan Village and Sojae Temple on Mount Biseul.
Gunwi County leads with its Sayuwon Arboretum and Architecture Park, offering a running program tailored for visiting athletes, a fitting way for them to take in Korea's countryside.
A view from 83 Tower in Dalseo District, Daegu / Courtesy of Daegu City
Source: Korea Times News
