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.