Jon Dunbar is a copy editor at The Korea Times, as well as editor of the Foreign Community page and curator of the Korea Times Archive. If you have suggestions for possible articles, or wish to contribute articles yourself, contact jdunbar@koreatimes.co.kr.
Seoul Gaels to host community day to spread Gaelic football
Niall McCallion coaching eager youngsters in the basic skills of Gaelic Football at Sinbanpo Sports Complex in southern Seoul, Nov. 2, 2024, during last year's Seoul Gaels Community Day. Courtesy of Tom Coyner
By Jon Dunbar
Gaelic football, often described as a cross between football and rugby, may not be well-known in Korea, but it has a dedicated community of players excited to introduce the sport to more people.
The Seoul Gaels GAA Club will host a Gaelic Football Community Day Saturday in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, offering the chance to experience a sport that has been played in Ireland for centuries, but remains new to many in Korea.
The free event, running from noon to 4 p.m., is open to all ages and skill levels. Children can take part in fun taster sessions and games, while adults are invited to join a “bring-a-friend” program designed for beginners. Organizers say the focus is not only on sport but also on friendship and cultural exchange.
"It’s not just about learning a new game, it’s about bringing people together,” said Neil Timmins, spokesperson for Seoul Gaels. “Gaelic football is fast, exciting and easy to pick up, and we’re excited to share it with the wider community in Korea.”
The Irish Association of Korea will operate a booth introducing Irish culture, offering kids a chance to learn about Ireland and get their faces painted.
Joe Trolan shoots for a score at Sinbanpo Sports Complex in southern Seoul, Nov. 2, 2024, during last year's Seoul Gaels Community Day. Courtesy of Tom Coyner
Founded in 2002, Seoul Gaels is one of the oldest and most successful Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) clubs in Asia. The club has won multiple Asian Gaelic Games titles and has helped introduce hundreds of players, both Irish and non-Irish, to the sport.
“We’re passionate about sharing Gaelic football and Irish culture with the local and international community in Seoul,” Timmins said. “This is a chance for people to learn a new sport, make friends and enjoy an afternoon outdoors, followed by an evening social.”
Afterward, the event will shift to the Craic House Irish bar in Itaewon, offering participants a chance to unwind and continue the cultural exchange off the field.
Follow @seoulgaelsgaa on Instagram for more information and to sign up for events.
Participants pose together during last year's Seoul Gaels Community Day at Sinbanpo Sports Complex in southern Seoul, Nov. 2, 2024. Courtesy of Tom Coyner