An introduction to the South Korean Grand Prix
The 2010 F1 Season saw the inclusion of the Korean Grand Prix, bringing the number of Grand Prix races in Asia to six (including India). This was a big coup for Korea and its carmakers that are increasingly commanding global recognition.
Although slated for the 2010 season, organisers cut it tight as construction of the Korean International Circuit was delayed and had to be certified by the FIA, the governing body of the F1. The circuit was finally completed in July and certified in time for the October race. The first Korean Grand Prix in 2010 was won by Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel won in the 2011 season.
The Korean Grand Prix is held at the purpose-built Korean International Circuit, the first of its kind in Korea. It is located in Yeongam County, roughly 400kms (250 miles) south of the capital Seoul. The track owners have negotiated a seven-year deal to host the F1 Korean Grand Prix race, with a five-year renewal option. However, recently criticism has been voiced by organisers claiming that hosting the F1 race is too expensive. They have tried to re-negotiate the deal with Bernie Ecclestone.