South Korea’s athletes delivered an impressive performance at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, securing three gold medals, four silvers, and three bronzes for a total of 10 medals and a 10th-place finish in the overall standings.
Standout Victories in Short Track Speed Skating
Short track speed skating proved to be the highlight, with the team claiming two golds led by stars Kim Gilli and Choi Min-jeong. Choi Min-jeong captured gold in the women’s 3000m relay for Seongnam City Hall, while Hwang Dae-heon added silvers in the men’s 1500m and 5000m relay for Gangwon Province Office. The squad amassed two golds, three silvers, and two bronzes in the discipline.
Heroic Airport Welcome
Upon returning home on February 24, Hwang Dae-heon, Choi Min-jeong, and Kim Gilli led the delegation through Incheon International Airport, greeted by roaring crowds and fans waving flags. The enthusiastic reception reflected national pride in the athletes’ clean, dedicated efforts.
Other Notable Achievements
Beyond short track, Cha Ga-on from Sehwa Girls’ High School earned South Korea’s highest-ever medal in women’s snowboard halfpipe. Veteran competitor Kim Sang-gyeom, at 37, improved dramatically in the ‘four-man’ event, while Yoo Seung captured bronze in big air. Training in speed skating, figure skating, and other disciplines contributed to the overall success.
Official Praise and Reflections
Choi Hoe-young, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, remarked, “Athletes showed pride and confidence to citizens at this major event. Their pure effort and passion drove Korean sports forward, inspiring national enthusiasm.”
Yoo Seung-min, President of the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, added, “All athletes worked tirelessly. Gratitude goes to players, the team, and stakeholders. The committee will continue supporting them to stand tall with confidence.”
Lee Soo-kyung, Chef de Mission, stated, “Representing the athletes, we sincerely thank the public. Olympic medals from diverse events signal a new benchmark for Korean winter sports. Even in challenging fields, these results showcase national strength. Teamwork shone through, regardless of individual medals—true pride.”
Medal Progress and Future Outlook
The 10-medal haul marks an improvement over Beijing 2022’s nine medals (two golds, five silvers, two bronzes), boosting South Korea by one. While ski and snowboard events yielded fewer results, emerging talents signal potential. Officials aim to build momentum toward the 2030 Games, focusing on broader medal opportunities.
