‘Delighted’ Prince Harry Announces ‘Exciting New Chapter’ for Cause Close to His Heart

Prince Harry has revealed an “exciting new chapter” for the Invictus Games, announcing that the event will head to Asia for the first time. The Duke of Sussex, aged 41, expressed his delight at bringing the games — which support wounded, injured, and sick veterans through the power of sport — to Daejeon in South Korea in 2029.

Speaking as the founding patron of the Invictus Games Foundation, Harry, who is married to Meghan Markle, described the announcement as a defining moment for the movement. “Today’s announcement is a defining moment for the Invictus Movement,” he said. “We are delighted to announce Daejeon, South Korea as the host of the 2029 Invictus Games and, on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation, we are so excited to work together.”

He continued: “As the first Asian nation selected to host the Games, the Republic of Korea represents an exciting new chapter in our journey to ensure that more wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans can benefit from the power of sport and the strength of the Invictus community.”

Daejeon was chosen following a competitive international bidding process. As South Korea’s fifth-largest city, it has a population of approximately 1.5 million and will host the event from 6 to 15 October 2029. Around 550 competitors from 26 nations are expected to participate across 12 sports, supported by roughly 1,100 family members and friends.

The Invictus Games were founded by Prince Harry in London in 2014. The competition aims to challenge perceptions of disability, promote adaptive sports, and showcase the resilience, determination, and unconquered spirit of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans. The next edition is scheduled for Birmingham in 2027, with Harry recently visiting the UK for the one-year-to-go celebrations.

During that trip, Harry reunited with his father, King Charles. It marked the first time his children, Prince Archie (aged seven) and Princess Lilibet (aged five), had seen their grandfather since 2022. Sources suggest Harry felt “buoyed” and “energised” by the family reunion and is hopeful for more opportunities in the future.v

The announcement comes as Harry continues his long-running battle for security arrangements when visiting the UK. Insiders indicate he has been motivated by the recent family meeting to pursue the matter further. A source told HELLO! magazine that Harry “will pursue it until RAVEC agree to enact the terms of reference that were made clear in front of a judge in the judicial review. It’s about the Home Office doing what they committed to in court.”

This includes convening a Risk Management Board to properly assess threats against him and his family. Reports suggest Harry has not undergone such an assessment for seven years. The security issue remains a significant concern for the Duke, who has been vocal about wanting adequate protection for his family during visits to Britain.

The expansion of the Invictus Games to South Korea represents a major milestone for the foundation. Since its inception, the event has grown substantially in scale and impact, providing a platform for veterans to compete, connect, and demonstrate their capabilities beyond their injuries. Bringing the Games to Asia for the first time opens new opportunities to support veterans from a wider range of nations and cultures.

Harry’s personal connection to the cause stems from his own military service and his experiences witnessing the challenges faced by wounded service personnel. The Invictus Games have become one of his most significant initiatives, reflecting his commitment to supporting those who have served their countries. The choice of South Korea as host nation highlights the global reach the movement has achieved and its continuing evolution.

For Harry, the announcement combines professional achievement with personal reflection. The recent family reunion with King Charles appears to have provided renewed energy as he balances his various commitments and advocacy work. His ongoing security dispute with UK authorities remains a complicated matter that continues to affect his ability to visit his home country freely with his family.

The Invictus Games have consistently demonstrated the transformative power of sport in rehabilitation and community building. Participants often speak of the event as life-changing, offering camaraderie, competition, and a renewed sense of purpose. The 2029 edition in Daejeon will build upon this legacy while introducing the movement to new audiences across Asia.

As preparations begin for the South Korean Games, excitement is building among veterans, their families, and supporters worldwide. The selection of Daejeon as host city reflects the growing international recognition of the Invictus Games and their positive impact. Harry’s vision for the event continues to expand, creating opportunities for healing and celebration across different cultures and continents.

The Duke’s dedication to the cause remains unwavering despite personal challenges and public scrutiny. The announcement of the 2029 Games serves as a reminder of his commitment to service and support for military veterans. As the Invictus movement enters this new chapter in Asia, it carries forward the core values of resilience, community, and hope that have defined it since its founding.

For Harry and those involved with the foundation, the coming years will focus on ensuring the South Korean Games are a resounding success that honors the spirit of the competitors and advances the mission of supporting wounded veterans globally. The announcement represents both celebration of past achievements and anticipation of future impact as the Invictus Games continue to grow in influence and reach.