The F1 Korean Grand Prix has kicked off for a three-day run at the Korea International Circuit in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province.

On opening day Friday, Germany’s Michael Schumacher set the fastest time in the opening practice session, clocking a lap of two minutes and two-point-784 seconds on the five-point-615 kilometer track.

Germany’s Sebastian Vettel, who has already clinched the 2011 world title, will seek to add another victory in Yeongam, while Spain's Fernando Alonso and Britain's Jenson Button are expected to fiercely compete for second place. Attention is also drawn on whether Schumacher will live up to his practice run.

Qualifying events will be held on Saturday and the final races are scheduled for Sunday.