Updated : 2026-02-24 21:43:50 KST
South Korea's winter sports heroes have officially returned home after competing at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Officials and fans gathered to congratulate the team and honor their efforts, as the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism hosted a welcoming ceremony. Chung Hye-lim was there. Flight KE928 from Milan arrived at Incheon International Airport around 4 p.m. local time on Tuesday, bringing home the main Milan Cortina Winter Olympics delegation of 53 people. Athletes walked through the arrival gate to cheers, applause, and homecoming banners marking the end of their Olympic journey.
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This returning group contained some of the nation's most followed ice athletes, including 14 short track speed skaters, 11 speed skaters, and 4 figure skaters. A grand welcoming ceremony was held at Terminal 2 to celebrate their arrival. South Korea's Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young, alongside Korean Sport and Olympic Committee President Yoo Seung-min, was on-site to personally greet the delegation.
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Chae presented flowers to the head of the delegation, Lee Soo-kyung, and delivered congratulatory remarks. "Every hard-fought moment has given young aspiring athletes new possibilities and courage for the future. I would like to extend my deepest respect and gratitude to all the national team athletes and officials." During the results report, Lee announced that South Korea wrapped up the Games with three gold, four silver, and three bronze medals. She highlighted a historic milestone, declaring South Korea the first Asian country to hold Olympic gold medals across ice, snow, and sliding sports.
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In the athlete interviews that followed, short track gold medalist Kim Gil-li drew laughter from the crowd when asked about her special ride home a Lamborghini SUV provided as a nod to her racing nickname, "Lamborgilli." "I am so thankful and happy that so many people welcomed us as soon as we arrived in Korea. I am thrilled that my nickname led to such a special connection.
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It's my first time riding in a car like this, so I'm really curious and can't wait to get in." Officials say they will continue supporting athletes as they prepare for future international competitions. Tuesday's ceremony marked not just a celebration of results but a recognition of the athletes' hard work and commitment. Chung Hye-lim, Arirang News.
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