The annual sports festival between Yonsei University and Korea University kicked off Friday.

The two-day event between two of South Korea’s most prestigious schools commenced with the opening ceremony held at Jamsil stadium in Southern Seoul.

The time-honored tradition between two of South Korea’s fiercest rivals is regarded as one of the biggest events in the country’s collegiate sports. Both schools are noted for the success of their sports teams as well as academic accomplishments.

The opening ceremony was followed by the baseball match at 11 a.m., which Yonsei took 3-1. The basketball game is scheduled to start at 3 p.m.

The hockey game at 4 p.m. will wrap up Friday’s events.

On Saturday, rugby (11 a.m.) and soccer (1 p.m.) games will be played, and the closing ceremony is slated for 3 p.m.

All games are held at Jamsil Stadium, except for hockey which will take place at Mokdong Stadium.

While the festival is a series of hotly contested events, it doesn’t lead to animosity between the two schools. After all the games are over, it is a tradition for students from Yonsei University and Korea University to join each other for a wrap-up party.

(minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com)