【Project Activities】

The 17th Asahikawa–Suwon Japan–Korea Friendship Youth Football Exchange was held in Asahikawa, Japan. Elementary and junior high school students from both cities—led by their football associations—took part in player exchanges, coach exchanges, homestays, and a social gathering. The program resumed for the first time since 2019 after being postponed due to COVID-19.

【Project Background】

The exchange began when, at the time Asahikawa and Suwon became sister cities in 1989, the Asahikawa District Football Association called on the Suwon Football Association to launch a youth football exchange. The program has been held biennially, and 2023 marked the 17th exchange. Over the years, the total number of players who have participated from both cities has reached about 3,400.

【Project Objective】

Football exchange between youth of sister cities Asahikawa (Japan) and Suwon (Korea).

【Project Area】

International exchange through sport

【Methods】

Dispatching and hosting athletes

【Outcomes】

We were able to promote grassroots exchange between Japanese and Korean youth in education, culture, and sport.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

We saw children and adults enjoying exchanges through football and homestays beyond language barriers. This was the first time the program was held after a two-year postponement due to COVID-19; concerns were quickly dispelled, and it reminded us of the value of people-to-people exchange. We would like to continue cherishing the football exchange between the two cities. We sincerely thank everyone—staff, players, and parents—for their warm welcome. (Coach-exchange participant)

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

On the first day of the football exchange, extreme heat required us to shorten the schedule as a heat-stress countermeasure. Further work is needed on heat prevention, including hydration. Increasing homestay time also enabled richer exchanges.

【URL】

http://www.afa11.com/