A sports festival that will see the participation of some seven-thousand soldiers in active service from roughly 120 countries will kick off in South Korea on Friday.
 
The sixth CISM, or International Military Sports Council, World Games will run from Friday to Sunday of next week in North Gyeongsang Province.
 
Competitions will be held in eight cities and districts in South Korea, including Munkyung, Pohang, Kimcheon and Andong.
 
Soldiers will compete in 24 events, including 19 general events often seen in Olympic Games and five military events, including orienteering and high-altitude low-opening parachuting technique competitions.
 
South Korea is aiming to grab more than 25 gold medals in the festival to rank within the top three countries in the overall medal tally.
 
North Korea, which initially had unveiled intentions to participate, ended up not attending the event.
 
This marks the first time for the sports event, which is held every four years, to open in South Korea.
 
KBS television will air live the event’s opening ceremony in Munkyung from 5:20 p.m. Friday.