Choi Ga-on (18) from Sehwa High School has made history by winning South Korea's first gold medal at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in the women's snowboard halfpipe final, achieving a score of 90.25. In recognition of her remarkable achievement, she will be awarded a luxury Omega watch worth approximately 9.5 million KRW, as the company announced a special Olympic edition timepiece for the first medalist in individual events from the Korean representatives, regardless of gender. This exclusive watch features the emblem of the Milan-Cortina Olympics and the Olympic rings engraved on the back.

In addition to the luxury watch, Choi is set to receive a substantial financial reward of over 300 million KRW. The Korean Ski and Snowboard Association, led by the Lotte Group, has allocated a prize structure that includes 300 million KRW for a gold medal, 200 million KRW for a silver medal, and 100 million KRW for a bronze medal. Beyond the cash rewards, Olympic gold medalists also have the option to receive a monthly pension of 1 million KRW or a one-time payment totaling around 60 million KRW, which recognizes their athletic success. Furthermore, a cash award of 63 million KRW will be granted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, adding to Choi's financial accolades.

This recognition of Choi's achievements is not just an acknowledgment of her performance at the games but also serves to highlight the increasing support for athletes in South Korea, reflecting a broader trend of celebrating and rewarding sports achievements within the country. It sets a positive precedent for future athletes aspiring to reach Olympic heights and reinforces the importance of investing in sports as part of national pride and identity.