The Alto Paraná region of Paraguay captured the world's attention with an unprecedented tourism and cultural event. Held in Ciudad del Este from August 28 to 31, the 1st Paraguay Hot Air Balloon World Championship 2025 drew massive crowds, painting the sky with vibrant colors and revitalizing the local economy. With over 30,000 spectators and international participants, the festival has established itself as a new landmark in the tri-border region where Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina meet.
Organized by a Korean national, the event featured more than 15 hot air balloons from 8 countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Japan. Brazil, in particular, boasted the largest delegation with 12 pilots. The competition included tethered flights and exhibitions in the Iguazú Colony, attracting keen interest from both domestic and international visitors. Although poor weather throughout the weekend led to some schedule adjustments, the pilots' skills shone brightly during the brief competitive flights. The joint team "Extra Vapor" from Brazil and Japan took home the championship, while Brazil's João Vitor and Diovani Miranda secured second and third place, respectively. Korean pilots also competed, and although they did not win any medals, they diligently completed their flights and received support from their peers.
Key figures such as Alto Paraná Governor César Landy Torres and Ciudad del Este Mayor Mauro Kawano participated in the opening flight. Governor Torres, who completed an 8km free flight with his wife, remarked, "It was a truly special experience." Mayor Kawano was moved by the enthusiastic public response, saying, "It was amazing to see children and adults running after the balloons, and even bank employees stopping work to watch."
Despite the weather limiting competitive flights to just two days, the pilots' exceptional skills left a deep impression on both spectators and organizers. The triumphant victory went to the "Extra Vapor" balloon, piloted by Brazil's Rupercio Lima and Japan's Mamoro Endo. Second place was awarded to the Taiwanese representative balloon, piloted by Brazil's João Vitor dos Santos Justo, and third place went to the "Elegance Company" led by Brazil's Diovani Miranda. Korean pilots also participated in the competition, and although they did not win any awards, they put on a good performance and received warm applause from other competitors.
In addition to the balloon show, the "Expo Iguazú" fair was held concurrently, featuring over 100 companies from the agricultural, commercial, and tourism sectors. On the final day of the event, more than 60 buses from all over the country flocked to the venue, significantly boosting the local economy. A multicultural food market showcased traditional Paraguayan dishes alongside Korean food, and performances by domestic and international artists, including Cumbia Juan and Brazilian singer Anderson Perini, entertained the crowds.
The head of the organizing committee, Korean national Steve Kim, emphasized that safety was their top priority, stating, "Thanks to our high operational standards, there was not a single accident." He expressed his hope that "we can get permission for free flights for spectators in the next event so more people can enjoy this sport." Another organizer, Richard Kim, expressed confidence, saying, "The first event was a wonderful occasion that fulfilled the dreams of many people. Next year will be even better."
The 1st Paraguay Hot Air Balloon Festival was not only a cultural and entertainment event but also held great economic and social significance. The Alto Paraná region has firmly established itself as an innovative host for events that encompass tourism, culture, and regional integration. With a sky painted in a spectrum of colors symbolizing regional harmony and growth, Paraguay has elevated its status as a host country for international events.
The success of the event was significantly bolstered by major sponsors, including Brazil's "Extra Vapor" and "Elegance Company," as well as the Consulate General of Taiwan, headquartered in Ciudad del Este. Other sponsors included Batería Pionero, Cooperativa de Iguazú, Grupo Vita International Solutions, and C4 Marketing y Eventos. The active support of government agencies, such as the National Secretariat of Tourism of Paraguay (SENATUR) and the Alto Paraná Governorate, also played a crucial role in making the event a success.
The organizers stated that "this success is just the beginning of a bigger future," and that the event would grow further with the support of corporate sponsors and the enthusiasm of the spectators. Proving that public and private collaboration can create positive ripple effects that transcend borders, this festival is poised to become a new annual event in Paraguay.
Richard Kim's planning and drive played a significant role in the success of this competition. As a second-generation Korean immigrant, he oversaw the entire preparation process, including planning, operations, and events, demonstrating his ability to coordinate between the local community and international participants. While Steve Kim, who was in charge of the event's execution, ensured stable competition operations, Richard Kim designed and implemented the big picture, leading to the event's accomplishments.
Richard's dedicated efforts expanded the competition from a simple sporting event to a venue for culture and exchange, and this success is expected to become the foundation for future hot air balloon competitions in Paraguay.
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