Why Seoul firefighters trade fire scenes for fitness stages

Participants salute during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin

"Let's go, Gangnam Fire Station!"

Loud cheers rang out during the 15th annual Seoul firefighter fitness competition that was held Thursday at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District.

The venue was filled with enthusiastic cheers from colleagues and family members for the 29 participating firefighters, who warmed up with dumbbells before taking the stage.

Removing their uniform jackets, the participants took the stage and showcased their chiseled physiques built through rigorous, high-intensity training, reflecting their dedication to protecting the public.

The event is more than a simple bodybuilding competition; it is designed to highlight the physical conditioning firefighters require to save lives in disaster zones. Top competitors are selected as models for a charity calendar.

Now in its 12th year, the calendar project has raised approximately 1.25 billion won ($833,823) through sales and donations to fund medical treatments for 302 burn victims.

Participants also spoke about their motivations.

"I endured because I wanted to inspire public confidence, and it became an opportunity for personal growth," Lim Hae-jin, a firefighter from the Yeongdeungpo Fire Station, said.

A participant use firefighting equipment to pose for an upcoming fundraising calendar during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin

Ryu Ji-sang, a rescue worker with the Ttukseom Water Rescue Team, smiled and said preparing for the competition brought new energy to his daily life and work.

Supporters cheer for contestants during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest at the Seoul Fire Academy in Eunpyeong District, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin

Lee Sung-woo of the Yeouido Water Rescue Team won the grand prize after appearing onstage with his children.

Grand prize winner Lee Sung-woo of the Yeouido Water Rescue Team poses with his sons, Sang-yoon and Sang-i, during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest, Thursday. Yonhap

Firefighters prepare to pose on stage during the 15th Seoul firefighter fitness contest, Thursday. A total of 12 winners were selected as models for the "Hope Sharing Calendar" to raise funds for burn victims. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.