The 2026 KIC Challenge Race opening round, billed as a thrilling motorsport event for the entire family, will be held on May 11-12 at the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam, drawing growing public interest.
South Jeolla Province is backing the event to promote motorsport popularity and revitalize the Yeongam international racing venue. Activities including go-kart experiences and virtual racing will be offered.
According to South Jeolla Province on Thursday, the 2026 KIC Challenge Race is a newly restructured competition organized by Korea Mobility Group (KMG). The group revamped the former "KIC-CUP Touring Car Race" with the goal of expanding amateur drivers' pathways to professional racing. This year, two of the season's four rounds will be held on the 5.6-kilometer F1 course for the first time in an amateur competition, attracting attention from motorsport circles.
The F1 course had previously been reserved for international events and large-scale competitions such as the "Jeonnam GT." The restructuring now gives amateur racers the opportunity to drive on a world-class circuit. The competition has also adopted a points-based system that tallies results across rounds to determine a season champion, raising the overall quality of the event.
Approximately 120 domestic and international vehicles will compete across seven categories in the opening round. Entries include prototype racing cars, the Hyundai Veloster N and the Toyota GT86, promising dynamic and exciting racing action.
Spectator programs have been significantly expanded. The "MOTO JOY" cultural event brand introduced last year has been redesigned as a family-friendly program, reinforcing the event's identity as a regional festival. Free activities available through on-site registration include a grid walk where fans can meet drivers and see cars up close, circuit bus tours, go-kart experiences, virtual racing, radio-controlled (RC) car experiences and an indoor play area for children.
"This competition, which covers everything from entry-level to professional development, is laying the groundwork for strengthening the motorsport ecosystem," said Jang Young-cheol, director of enterprise city affairs at South Jeolla Province. "We will continue to support the event so it grows into a distinctive regional festival that blends speed with a rich cultural experience."