Korean F1 Grand Prix Opens Friday in Yeongam County

The machine features 10 billion won (8.8 million U.S. dollars) worth of the world’s best automotive technologies. The cold body turns on in a second and those who see the heat spewing out of the heated car are burning inside, too.

Now, it is ready.

Twenty-four of the world’s best drivers wait on Korean soil. A new wind in Korean motor sports will blow and they will make a leap forward along with cars going through South Jeolla Province.

The inaugural Korean Formula One Grand Prix begins Friday at the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam County. Starting with training, the qualifying race will be held Saturday and the final Sunday.

The twenty-four drivers on 12 teams have arrived in Korea. The 5.615-kilometer circuit for the race is ready and waiting for opening.

Korea’s hosting of the F1 race has led to the building of motor sports infrastructure befitting the country’s status as the world’s fifth-largest car producer. With this event, Korea adds to the list of global sporting events it has hosted, including the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 2002 World Cup soccer finals.

Asia’s growing influence as a motor sports hub will be highlighted with the Korean race, following those hosted by Japan, Malaysia, China, Singapore, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

Many twists and turns as well as fears have arose since the country won the hosting rights in February 2006. The first event Friday will seek to answer jitters at home and abroad over the race and be an opportunity to let the world know about Korea’s potential in motor sports.

President Lee Myung-bak sent a congratulatory e-mail message to South Jeolla Province Gov. Park Joon-yung on the race. “Since global sports fans will focus on the event, please do your best to make the race dynamic and safe so that it can become a memorable to people around the world,” the president said.

hanwshin@donga.com