Participants salute during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin
"Let's go, Gangnam Fire Station!"
Loud cheers rang out during the 15th annual Seoul firefighter fitness competition that was held Thursday at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District.
The venue was filled with enthusiastic cheers from colleagues and family members for the 29 participating firefighters, who warmed up with dumbbells before taking the stage.
Removing their uniform jackets, the participants took the stage and showcased their chiseled physiques built through rigorous, high-intensity training, reflecting their dedication to protecting the public.
The event is more than a simple bodybuilding competition; it is designed to highlight the physical conditioning firefighters require to save lives in disaster zones. Top competitors are selected as models for a charity calendar.
Now in its 12th year, the calendar project has raised approximately 1.25 billion won ($833,823) through sales and donations to fund medical treatments for 302 burn victims.
Participants also spoke about their motivations.
"I endured because I wanted to inspire public confidence, and it became an opportunity for personal growth," Lim Hae-jin, a firefighter from the Yeongdeungpo Fire Station, said.
A participant use firefighting equipment to pose for an upcoming fundraising calendar during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin
Source: Korea Times News
