A total of 12 tables with 26 umpires on duty, a major tournament in its own right, the event may also be regarded as a test for next year’s global gathering when the BEXCO (Busan Exhibition and Convention Center) will be the host, as opposed to the Sajik Indoor Gymnasium, the current venue.

At the helm of proceedings is Zena Zim, the Competition Manager, the Referee being Young-sam Ma, the Chair of the ITTF Umpires and Referees Committee. They are supported by experienced Deputy Referees, Malaysia’s Cyril Sen and the host nation’s Park Insook; all are combining to enable the tournament to progress in a most efficient and enjoyable manner. There are smiling faces, most importantly everyone is pulling in the same direction, there is concord in Korea.

Notably many tables tennis fans have been present, despite the fact that so far play has taken place only on working days.

Furthermore, the warm welcome, the respectful greetings, true to the country’s best traditions, are very much in evidence; another fact which augurs well for next year’s global gathering, as Busan opens its arms to the world. All present have praised the hospitality and high standard accommodation provided; moreover, the delicious spicy food has been well received.

It seems in Busan, especially for the male umpires they have it right, as they say, a way to an umpire’s heart is through his stomach!