The World Para Swimming (WPS) World Series for 2027 and 2028 will be held at the Munhak Park Tae-hwan Aquatics Center in Incheon.

The Korea Para-Swimming Association announced that "WPS finalized its approval to host the event in Incheon after visiting South Korea on the 29th and completing an on-site inspection."

The association stated, "This marks the first time the World Para Swimming World Series will be held in South Korea," adding, "It is expected to serve as a major turning point in elevating the global status of domestic para swimming and lowering barriers for athletes to participate in international competitions."

With the successful bid to host the World Series, the issue of international classification (disability grading) for South Korean para swimmers is expected to be largely resolved.

Previously, South Korean athletes had to travel abroad to receive WPS classification required for participating in international tournaments.

However, with the World Series taking place domestically for two consecutive years, procedural and financial burdens will be reduced.

Sung Baek-yu, President of the Korea Para-Swimming Association, expressed expectations, saying, "Hosting the World Series for two consecutive years has fulfilled a long-cherished wish of domestic para swimmers. Para athletes who previously held strong records but lacked international classifications will now be able to receive them, providing an opportunity for South Korean para swimming to advance to the next level."

The association plans to establish the Incheon World Para Swimming World Series Organizing Committee and begin full-scale preparations starting in October, covering operations, promotion, volunteering, and facility upgrades.

Next year's competition will be held in May, while the exact timing for the 2028 tournament has not yet been determined.

(Photo provided by Korea Para-Swimming Association, Yonhap News)