Feb 19 β€’ 23:56 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

President Yoon welcomes the election of Won Yoon-jong as IOC athlete member... asks for the spread of peace and solidarity

President Yoon Suk-yeol welcomes the election of Won Yoon-jong as an athlete member of the International Olympic Committee and urges the spread of peace and solidarity through sports.

President Yoon Suk-yeol of South Korea expressed his approval regarding the election of Won Yoon-jong to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an athlete member. In a Facebook message, he noted that Won was one of two candidates elected out of eleven competitors, achieving the highest number of votes. This outcome reflects both Won's demonstrated leadership on the international stage and the trust placed in him by his peers. President Yoon also acknowledged Won’s achievements as a legendary bobsledder, highlighting his influential role in advocating for the rights of athletes globally.

Won Yoon-jong, who previously won a silver medal in the men's four-man bobsleigh at the Pyeongchang Olympics in 2018, has transitioned to a role in sports administration following his retirement. His prior experiences include serving as an athlete representative in the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) and competing in various international events. Winning this election makes him the third South Korean athlete to serve on the IOC, following notable gold medalists in taekwondo and table tennis. His election is seen as a recognition of his dedication to the sport and the responsibilities that come with this new position.

President Yoon concluded his message by expressing confidence in Won’s capacity to represent athletes' rights and promote the values of peace and solidarity through sports. He also promised government support for Won's initiatives within the IOC, emphasizing South Korea's commitment to participating in international discussions focused on the development of sports and athlete protection. With such backing, the government aims to foster a responsible and supportive environment for future generations of athletes.

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