NHRCK to Monitor Human Rights Conditions at Major Sporting Events in 2025
– For an environment where all members of society can enjoy sports with mutual respect for human rights –
□ The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (Chairperson: Ahn Chang-ho, hereinafter referred to as the “NHRCK”) began its monitoring of human rights conditions at major sporting events in 2025 with the 39th National Men’s and Women’s Short Track Speed Skating Championships held on 21 March. It also monitored the management of three events during the 19th National Sports Festival for Students with Disabilities, held from 13 to 16 May. The NHRCK plans to monitor human rights conditions in a total of 26 events across 10 major sports competitions this year.
□ The NHRCK’s “Human Rights Monitoring Project for Major Sports Competitions” aims to improve awareness of human rights in sports and prevent human rights violations. Since 2019, the NHRCK has conducted annual monitoring of comprehensive and nationwide sporting events to assess whether competitions are being operated in a human rights-friendly manner.
□ In 2024, the NHRCK conducted monitoring for 25 events across 9 competitions, including the 105th National Sports Festival. It identified areas in need of improvement, such as the use of inappropriate language and insufficient safety measures in sports facilities. The Commission called on relevant agencies and organisations to take prompt corrective action and implement measures to prevent recurrence in future competitions.
□ This year, the NHRCK will assess whether human rights violations have occurred during competitions, and review general human rights conditions such as the environment of venues and accommodations. Particular attention will be paid to the venue environments and human rights protection systems in youth and disability sports competitions.
○ In addition to on-site inspections, the NHRCK plans to conduct in-depth interviews with stakeholders including athletes, coaches, and guardians to better understand the actual conditions. The list of events and timelines for the 2025 Human Rights Monitoring of Major Sports Competitions is as follows:
< 2025 Human Rights Monitoring of Major Sports Competitions – Events and Periods >
|
Name of Competition (Monitored Events) |
Location |
Period |
|
39th National Men’s and Women’s Short Track Speed Skating Championships |
Goyang, Gyeonggi |
21–23 March |
|
19th National Sports Festival for Students with Disabilities (Goalball, Badminton, Swimming) |
Gimhae, Gyeongnam |
13–16 May |
|
54th National Youth Sports Festival (Golf, Wrestling, Roller Skating, Swimming, Fencing, Hockey) |
Gimhae, Gyeongnam |
24–27 May |
|
Para Ice Hockey K-League |
Gangneung, Gangwon |
May–November |
|
2025 Korean Curling Championships |
Jincheon, Chungbuk |
23–30 July |
|
65th National Kendo Championships (Team Competition) |
Geumsan, Chungnam |
25–27 July |
|
37th National Softball Championships |
Hoengseong, Gangwon |
5–9 September |
|
57th National Archery Championships |
Yecheon, Gyeongbuk |
19–22 September |
|
106th National Sports Festival (Rugby, Shooting, Weightlifting, Yachting, Road Athletics, Women’s Football) |
Busan |
17–23 October |
|
45th National Sports Festival for Persons with Disabilities (Dance Sports, Cycling, Yachting, Equestrian, Triathlon) |
Busan |
31 October–5 November |
□ As a result of continuous monitoring, the NHRCK has observed a significant reduction in verbal and physical abuse during competitions. Improvements have also been made to ensure rapid emergency response, such as the increased presence of medical personnel and ambulances. Additionally, convenience facilities for athletes—such as waiting rooms and changing areas—have been expanded.
□ Going forward, the NHRCK will continue its efforts to ensure that all individuals participating in and enjoying sports can do so in an environment where human rights are respected and protected from violations.
