The team took their first World Cup medal of the season.Continue reading
Three-time Olympic medalist Kim Minsok, a South Korean long track speed skater, will continue his career representing Hungary, along with a South Korean short track skater.
Ákos Bánhidi, the sport sector’s director, highlighted the importance of this naturalization, demonstrating that Hungary can attract top athletes from major sporting nations. This follows the departure of the Liu brothers and aims to show Hungary’s favorable conditions for athletes.
Mr. Bánhidi noted that the two Asian athletes are excelling in training and inspiring Hungarian youngsters.
He stated, “as in business, results are the priority in sport,” referencing the Liu brothers’ success.
The sport leader welcomed Mun Wunjun to the relay team, acknowledging his World Cup-level performance at the South Korean qualifiers.
Kim Minsok, now known as Oliver for his Hungarian citizenship, shared his struggles in South Korea, where he was banned for drink-driving and disqualified from the national team.
He plans to train with a professional team in the Netherlands but will join the Hungarian short track team when in Hungary.
Kim’s main goal is to win a brighter medal at the Winter Olympics, despite challenges posed by his recent dominance in the 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m at World Championships. He is focused on representing Hungary at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
Both skaters will compete in Hungarian and Ferencváros (FTC) colors in the upcoming season. Chul Won-Li, a key figure in the Hungarian national team’s professional staff, played a crucial role in their naturalization process.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Facebook / HUNSKATE – Magyar Országos Korcsolyázó Szövetség