As athletes glide across Harbin’s state-of-the-art ice rinks during the Asian Winter Games, International Skating Union (ISU) President Kim Jae-youl celebrated the event’s transformative impact on winter sports in Asia. In an exclusive interview with Sports Scene, Kim highlighted the Games’ role in amplifying regional talent and fan engagement.
Kim praised Harbin’s organizers for delivering “impressive venues and seamless execution,” which he said set a new benchmark for winter sports events. The ISU leader emphasized Asia’s rising prominence in disciplines like figure skating, pointing to robust junior development programs and growing media coverage.
“The rivalry between China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea pushes athletes to new heights,” Kim noted, citing recent breakthroughs in speed skating and aerial events. He also spotlighted emerging stars from Southeast Asian nations experimenting with winter sports despite warmer climates.
With over 20 countries and regions participating, the Games have become a hub for cross-cultural exchange, aligning with the ISU’s vision to globalize skating. Kim concluded: “Asia isn’t just the future – it’s where winter sports innovation is happening now.”
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Exclusive: ISU president Kim Jae-youl praises Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
