South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has launched an official nationwide call for candidate sites to build advanced, multi-purpose dome stadiums designed for major sporting events and large-scale entertainment performances. The initiative, announced in mid-October 2025, aims to select two distinct locations—one large-scale and one medium-scale venue—to expand the country’s infrastructure for year-round international competitions and cultural festivals.
Nationwide Open Competition Timeline and Deadlines
The Ministry opened the candidate site solicitation process on October 14, 2025, establishing a strict application window for regional authorities. Municipal governments and public institutions governed by the Act on the Management of Public Institutions have until October 28 to submit initial letters of intent. The final deadline for complete project proposals is set for December 8, 2025.
Evaluation procedures will run through the remainder of December. An external panel of experts appointed by the Ministry will conduct a written evaluation from December 9 to December 14, followed by site inspections and presentations between December 17 and December 28. The final selection of the candidate sites is scheduled to be announced at the end of December.
Scale Requirements and Dual-Tier Venue Plan
The government project is divided into two structural categories to accommodate varying event capacities. Large-scale dome stadiums must feature a permanent seating capacity of at least 40,000, with total accommodating capabilities exceeding 50,000 patrons. Medium-scale facilities are targeted for capacities ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 seats.
Applying public institutions are required to obtain approval from their supervising authorities before submitting bids. Eligible entities may apply for up to one candidate site in each category, provided their proposals include comprehensive operational frameworks, regional demand alignment, and participation plans for strategic partner organizations.
Evaluation Criteria and Subsequent Feasibility Studies
The Ministry’s evaluation committee will score submissions across three core areas: the viability of the utilization plan, the suitability of the chosen site, and the overall realism and expected economic impact of the project. Selection as a candidate site does not grant separate legal status or immediate funding authorization.
Selected localities will enter a baseline survey and master planning phase running through the first half of 2027. Preliminary feasibility studies will follow in the second half of 2027, eventually leading to architectural design, administrative permitting, and a targeted construction completion year of 2034.
Strategic Objectives for Sports Tourism and K-Culture
Ministry officials stated that the project is intended to broaden public access to sports and cultural activities while establishing prominent national landmarks capable of drawing domestic and international tourists. Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choi Hwi-young noted that the multi-purpose facilities are expected to serve as global platforms showcasing South Korean athletics and the broader reach of K-Culture, while driving local tourism and regional economic vitality.
