On 22 August 2025, Khon Kaen University held a press conference to announce the 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon (KKIM 2026) at the 25th Floor Conference Hall, Sports Authority of Thailand Headquarters, Bangkok. The event was presided over by Mr. Yutthaporn Pirunsarn, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province, together with Mr. Sukit Sirinorrakul, Chairman of the University Promotion Affairs Committee, and Asst. Prof. Prapansak Chaveerach, D.V.M., Ph.D., Assistant to the President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization, Khon Kaen University, who jointly unveiled details of the grand race scheduled for 10–11 January 2026.
Mr. Yutthaporn highlighted Khon Kaen’s readiness to host, noting the city’s strengths: over 5,000 hotel rooms, vibrant cheering stations along the route, convenient transport by rail, road, and air, world-class medical services, electric shuttle buses for runners, and cool January weather that provides ideal running conditions. He emphasized that Khon Kaen’s race route is known for helping runners achieve personal bests, and assured that the province is fully prepared to welcome participants from around the world with warm hospitality.
Mr. Sukit underlined the international recognition of the marathon, stressing that the course has been officially certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS). This means results achieved in Khon Kaen can be used as qualifying times for prestigious global races such as the Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, and other World Marathon Majors. He further noted that the marathon is a source of pride for both the university and the province, enhancing Thailand’s standing in the global running community while also promoting sports tourism. Last year’s event drew more than 10,000 runners and generated an estimated economic impact exceeding 100 million baht.
A highlight of the Khon Kaen International Marathon is the presentation of Royal Trophies. The King’s Trophy and cash prizes will be awarded to the male and female winners of the full marathon, while the Queen Mother’s Trophy will be presented for the half marathon winners, and the Princess’s Trophy for the mini marathon winners. Few events in Thailand hold the distinction of receiving Royal Trophies from all three members of the Royal Family. With prize money totaling over 1 million baht, KKIM 2026 will be held under the theme “Legendary Run, Iconic Isan,” celebrating the event’s 21-year legacy as the longest-standing marathon in Northeastern Thailand. This year’s race shirt design incorporates Isan cultural icons such as the dok khun flower, khaen instrument, and traditional mudmee silk, symbolizing the soft power of Isan heritage on the global stage.
Asst. Prof. Prapansak emphasized Khon Kaen University’s readiness to ensure both safety and an exceptional race experience. He noted that the route offers not only excellent conditions for running but also scenic beauty, providing participants with a memorable blend of nature, culture, and community spirit. With his own experience as a runner, he expressed confidence that the marathon will leave a lasting impression on all participants.
The 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon will be held across two days. On Saturday, 10 January 2026, the schedule features the Kids Run (2.8 km), Fun Run (5.4 km), and Elite Fun Run (5.4 km). This year, the Kids Run will include cash prizes and trophies for the top five finishers in each age group, with parents welcome to run alongside their children. After the race, the Faculty of Education will organize engaging activities for children, and all Kids Run participants will also receive free admission to Khon Kaen University’s museums. On Sunday, 11 January 2026, the international marathon events will take place, including the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.1 km), mini marathon (11.55 km), and health run (5.4 km). Water stations and pace groups will support runners of all abilities, with new age categories this year extending to runners aged 70 and above.
Beyond the race, the event will feature a local food festival with over 200 vendors under the BCG Economy concept, offering both athletes and visitors a taste of Isan’s rich culinary heritage. Registration is now open at www.khonkaenmarathon.com, with more updates available on the official Facebook page “Khon Kaen International Marathon”.
