Asian Games 2038: Cities and Nations Bidding for Hosting Rights
The race to host the 2038 Asian Games is beginning to take shape as several nations and cities express their interest in bringing one of the world's largest multi-sport events to their shores. Managed by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA)—the governing body for sports in Asia—the selection process involves rigorous technical evaluations and strategic national planning.
From established sporting hubs to emerging candidates, the current landscape of interested parties reflects a blend of joint city alliances and ambitious national development programs aimed at elevating continental sports standards.
Key Facts
- India has officially submitted a bid with Ahmedabad as the proposed host city.
- South Korea is pursuing a joint bid through the "Dalbit (Moonlight) Alliance" between Gwangju and Daegu.
- Vietnam has integrated the 2038 bid into its national "Development of Key Sports 2026–2046" program.
- Mongolia has submitted a bid for its capital, Ulaanbaatar.
- Malaysia is exploring a potential bid centered on Kuala Lumpur.
Detailed Analysis of Bidding Cities
Ahmedabad, India
India has taken a formal step toward hosting the Games, proposing Ahmedabad as the host city. This proposal was discussed during an OCA Executive Board meeting in Sanya, China, and the OCA has confirmed that an evaluation visit will follow. Ahmedabad is already positioning itself as a major sports hub, as it is set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and is currently bidding for the 2036 Summer Olympics.
On April 29, 2026, the OCA Executive Board announced it had welcomed the official bid submission from the Indian Olympic Association. A technical report is scheduled for submission and review in September 2026.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Gwangju and Daegu, South Korea
In a unique collaborative effort, the South Korean cities of Gwangju and Daegu launched a joint bid in 2021 known as the Dalbit (Moonlight) Alliance. The bid was formally launched in Daegu on November 15, 2021, supported by a public signature campaign across both cities.
While the bid initially faced criticism from civic groups regarding a lack of public consultation, renewed efforts in 2023 included public surveys that indicated majority support for the project.
Ha Noi, Vietnam
Vietnam has adopted a highly strategic approach to the 2038 Games. In May 2026, the Vietnamese government officially signaled its intent to host, linking the bid to the "Development of Key Sports 2026–2046" program. This national objective aims to upgrade training facilities to international standards and propel Vietnam into the top 15 continental rankings.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Mongolia is actively seeking to increase its presence in international sports. In April 2026, reports indicated that the Mongolian National Olympic Committee had submitted a bid for the capital, Ulaanbaatar, to host the 2038 Asian Games. Simultaneously, Mongolia is bidding to host the 2030 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Malaysia is currently in the preliminary stages of exploration. While government-level discussions remain early, Kuala Lumpur is the expected candidate city. The OCA leadership has encouraged Malaysia to consider hosting future editions of the Games.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Summary of Interested Parties
| City | Country | National Olympic Committee | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmedabad | India | Indian Olympic Association | Bid submitted |
| Gwangju and Daegu | South Korea | Korean Sport & Olympic Committee | Interested |
| Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia | Olympic Council of Malaysia | Interested |
| Ha Noi | Vietnam | Vietnam Olympic Committee | Interested |
| Ulaanbaatar | Mongolia | Mongolian National Olympic Committee | Interested |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city has officially submitted a bid for the 2038 Asian Games?
Ahmedabad, India, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, have both submitted bids for the 2038 Games.
What is the "Dalbit Alliance"?
The Dalbit (Moonlight) Alliance is a joint bidding partnership between the South Korean cities of Gwangju and Daegu to co-host the event.
How is Vietnam preparing for a potential 2038 host role?
Vietnam has launched the "Development of Key Sports 2026–2046" program, which focuses on upgrading national training facilities to international standards and aiming for a top 15 continental ranking.
When will the technical report for India's bid be reviewed?
The technical report submitted by the Indian Olympic Association is scheduled to be reviewed in September 2026.
Is Malaysia officially bidding for the 2038 Games?
Malaysia is currently exploring a potential bid with Kuala Lumpur as the candidate city, though government discussions remain preliminary.