EONJU -- The FIDA World Cup Jeonju 2025 will be held from September 25 (Thurs) to September 28 (Sun) at the Jeonju International Drone Sports Center and Jeonju World Cup Stadium.

Co-hosted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Jeonbuk State, the City of Jeonju, and the International Drone Soccer Federation (FIDA), this event marks the world’s first Drone Soccer World Cup. Under the theme “Drone Soccer, Opening the Sky and Connecting the World,” it will transcend the boundaries of sport to become a global festival that brings together cutting-edge technology, culture, and tourism, offering visitors thrilling matches, K-pop celebratory performances, and a wide range of experiential programs, all in one venue.

Experience the Future of Sports Where Drones Meet Soccer

Drone soccer is a next-generation sport that combines drone technology with the thrill of soccer. Each team consists of five players, with one designated as the striker. Matches follow a best-of-three format, with each set lasting three minutes. The highlight of the game is the fierce competition to score points by flying drone balls through a circular goal suspended in the air. Fast-paced offensive and defensive clashes, along with tactical adjustments between sets, create a dynamic and electrifying spectacle for players and spectators alike.

The FIDA World Cup is divided into two categories: Class 40 and Class 20, featuring national team and club competitions, respectively. The top 16 teams from the group stage will advance to the knockout rounds, where they will compete for the champion title. Adding to the excitement, special demonstration events — including the Crashing Competition and the Super Pilot Selection Competition — will showcase the skill, intensity, and innovation at the heart of drone sports.

Opening Performance Featuring K-pop and Trot Singers

The opening ceremony, scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. on September 25, will feature performances by top K-pop and trot singers. The lineup includes RIIZE, AHOF, ICHILLIN’, and Kim Hee-jae, all of whom are expected to heighten the excitement of the event. In addition, the pre-opening event will present captivating electronic string music and dynamic b-boy dance performances, setting the stage for a spectacular start to the tournament.

Symposium, Performances, Experiences, Drone Show: A Variety of Side Events at a Glance

The event will also feature a variety of side programs. On the first and second days of the competition, the ‘Drone Industry International Symposium’ will take place at The May Hotel, offering insights into the future of drone technology and the broader industry. Throughout the event, cultural and artistic performances will showcase both tradition and modernity, including street theater, opera, and dance. The ‘Drone Experience Program’ will be open, while the 2025 Buy Jeonju GOGO Festival will highlight Jeonju’s outstanding local products.

On the evening of the third day, a Drone Light Show will illuminate the night sky. The event will conclude on the final day with the 2025 Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport National Drone Soccer Tournament for Elementary, Middle, and High School Students, offering the nation’s student athletes an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and serving as the grand finale of the FIDA World Cup Jeonju 2025.

FIDA President Ro Sang Heub said, “Hosting the world’s first Drone Soccer World Cup in Jeonju represents a significant step in promoting the city as the birthplace of drone soccer. The event serves not only to establish drone soccer as a globally recognized sport but also to contribute to the future growth and development of the drone industry.”

Jeonju Mayor Woo Beom-ki remarked, “The FIDA World Cup Jeonju 2025 is a global festival that combines cutting-edge technology, culture, and tourism, offering a unique experience for everyone, regardless of age or gender. From thrilling drone soccer matches and performances by leading K-pop artists to diverse hands-on activities and cultural and artistic programs, this event is expected to showcase the city’s charm to the world.”

About the FIDA World Cup Jeonju 2025 Organizing Committee

Under the slogan “Drone Soccer, Opening the Sky and Connecting the World,” the FIDA World Cup Jeonju 2025 will take place over four days, from Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28, at the Jeonju International Drone Sports Center and Jeonju World Cup Stadium. Hosted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the City of Jeonju, and organized by the International Drone Soccer Federation (FIDA), the event is expected to mark a significant milestone in establishing drone soccer as a global sport.