Seoul:Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon announced that the city is open to the possibility of co-hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics with North Jeolla Province. This comes after North Jeolla, which was selected as South Korea's candidate for the event, suggested a partnership due to challenges in hosting on its own.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Mayor Oh stated that Seoul has no reason to decline any proposal from North Jeolla for a co-hosting arrangement and expressed his willingness to accept such a proposal. He emphasized that he does not intend to impose any specific conditions for the collaboration.

North Jeolla, located approximately 200 kilometers south of Seoul, was chosen over the capital city to be the country's candidate for the Olympics last year. However, the province has reconsidered its solo hosting capabilities because of inadequate infrastructure, such as accommodations, transportation, and stadiums.

Governor Lee Won-taeg of North Jeolla met with Mayor Oh on September 7 at Seoul City Hall to discuss the co-hosting proposal. Seoul has reportedly suggested that major events, including the opening and closing ceremonies, be held in the capital.

Mayor Oh noted the challenges in formulating Seoul's position, as North Jeolla has not yet made a concrete proposal. He pointed out that the decision must also consider the perspective of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which prioritizes minimizing costs and inconvenience. The IOC would need to evaluate whether a joint hosting arrangement, involving travel between Seoul and Jeonju, aligns with these priorities.

Mayor Oh urged the central government to develop a comprehensive proposal for North Jeolla, taking into account the potential approval of such an arrangement by the IOC.