Shim Seok-hee, 29, of the Seoul City Hall team, celebrated her third Olympic gold medal in the women’s 3000m relay at the 2026 Winter Olympics, marking her comeback after an eight-year hiatus. Although she did not participate in individual events, her specialized role in the relay was pivotal in leading her team to victory alongside teammates Choi Min-jeong, Kim Gil-ri, No Do-hee, and Lee So-yeon. Their teamwork and Shim’s strength proved invaluable, particularly during a crucial push that allowed Choi to advance the team’s position significantly.

Her Olympic journey has been remarkable, with a total of five Olympic medals—three gold, one silver, and one bronze—earned over her career, all of which were won in relay events. Her physical attributes, including a 1.775m height and powerful strides, have made her an asset in relay races, showcasing her ability to improve her teammates' performance through effective pushing during exchanges. In the semifinals of the relay, her efforts were evident as she helped propel her team into the finals, illustrating her crucial role in the competition.

In a heartfelt post-race interview, Shim expressed the emotional weight of her victory, stating, 'I felt overwhelmed that all our athletes endured and overcame many tough situations leading to this final.' This win not only symbolizes her personal triumph after missing the previous Olympics in Beijing but also highlights the intense preparation and focus on team events that culminated in her success at this competition.