Competitors operate drone controllers during a competition. [Photo/Qingdao Daily]

More than 800 competitors, including over 40 from South Korea, have gathered in Qingdao, Shandong province, for drone and model aircraft competitions from Oct 17 to 19.

The inaugural China-South Korea International Drone Invitational Competition and the Shandong Provincial Aeromodelling Championships were held at two venues in Qingdao's Chengyang district: the former Liuting Airport and the Baishawan Football Base, featuring drone racing, drone soccer, and traditional model aircraft contests.

The international invitational gives young competitors from China and South Korea an opportunity to showcase their skills and exchange ideas, while the provincial championships comprise five major categories and 16 events, including catapult-launched glider endurance races and rubber-powered model aircraft competitions. Several events have attracted more than 100 entrants each.

Yang Jianjun, president of the Shandong Aviation Sports Association, said the joint event provides a new platform for sustained exchanges in aviation technology and sports between Chinese and South Korean youth.

Organizers also aim to nurture talent, promote technological innovation, and strengthen links between sports and Qingdao's developing low-altitude economy.