Cross-country paragliding pilots from around the world descended on South Korea's tree-covered mountains for the Asian Oceanic Championships. Lavish opening and closing ceremonies, rich cultural heritage, and food to remember rounded out a competition as memorable off the hill as on it.

Paraglider preparing to launch from a hilltop with scenic valley and mountains visible in the background.
Paraglider soaring over lush green bushes against a bright blue sky on a sunny day.
Woman wearing traditional Korean hanbok with pink skirt and floral corsage, smiling outdoors at a cultural event.
Colorful paragliders soaring over lush green mountains on a clear day, with spectators watching from the foreground.
Military marching band performs outdoors in navy uniforms, playing brass instruments with a green flag bearer leading the procession.
Paraglider soaring over a lush green valley with a small village and mountain ridges in South Korea.
Paraglider with red and yellow canopy soaring over vibrant yellow flowering fields under a bright blue sky.
Hands pointing at a detailed topographic mountain map with blue and red route markings outdoors.
Colorful streamers and confetti fill the air at a festive outdoor stage event with performers and a vibrant backdrop.
Paragliders launching colorful canopies on a green field under a blue sky with multiple gliders soaring above.
Aerial view of a blue paraglider soaring over lush green forested mountains with a resort building below.
Two women in blue uniforms carry a 2024 FAI paragliding championship banner along a tree-lined path in Korea.
Crowd of smiling men clapping outdoors at an event, with mountains and trees in the background.