Short track has traditionally been a stronghold for South Korea in winter Olympics, having won two gold medals at the 2022 Beijing Games. However, the team faces an uphill battle at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, having only secured one bronze medal so far in the men's 1000m. As they approach the halfway point of the games, the narrative shifts to hope and resilience as veteran athletes prepare to compete in their signature events.

On the morning of February 15, the men's 1500m heats will take place at an early hour, with key competitors including the youngest team member, Im Jong-eon, who won a gold medal in the 1500m earlier this season at a World Cup event. Im is optimistic about his performance and has hinted at a strategic edge he plans to utilize during the competition. Meanwhile, Hwang Dae-heon, the defending champion from the previous Olympics, is also vying for a second consecutive gold medal, facing off against formidable opponents including Lin Shaojun, a notable contender from China.

Additional races, including the women's 1000m qualifiers featuring Choi Min-jeong, and the women's 3000m relay semifinals, will also take place on the same day, showcasing South Korea's depth in short track skating and building anticipation for competitive showdowns. As the Olympics unfold, the South Korean short track team aims to reclaim their dominance in the sport amidst a challenging start to the games, igniting the hopes of fans and athletes alike.