South Korean short track star Park Ji Won (Seoul City Hall) has expressed unwavering confidence despite potential challenges such as China’s home advantage. His self-assured mindset perfectly embodies what can be called “Jiwon’s Bright Mindset,” a fitting trait for the world’s No. 1-ranked skater.
Since arriving in Harbin on Sunday, Park and the South Korean short track team have been training at the Heilongjiang Ice Training Center starting Monday.
As the world’s strongest short track nation, South Korea is once again the top contender for gold across all events at this competition. However, one major factor is China’s home advantage.
At the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, South Korea was controversially disqualified in a highly disputed officiating decision, ultimately handing China gold medals. Concerns about the competition venue’s narrow track have also been raised, which may disadvantage South Korean skaters specializing in last-minute overtakes.
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“I Trust the Time I Have Spent Preparing… Ice Conditions Don’t Worry Me”
Despite these concerns, Park Ji Won, who will compete in this tournament wearing the gold helmet of the world’s No. 1-ranked skater, remains unfazed by external factors.
After completing training on Wednesday, he stated, “People say the ice isn’t great, but I understand and control ice conditions better than anyone. I trust my time preparing, so I have no concerns about the ice.”
His words reflected the confidence built from years of preparation and his ability to manage challenges.
Regarding the narrow track, he remained equally composed: “At the end of the day, the conditions are the same for everyone. The key is who races more wisely. I feel confident—it’s not a problem,” he said with a smile.
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“Jiwon’s Bright Mindset”… “Same Conditions for Everyone, I Trust My Smart Racing”
Park Ji Won is known for his bold statements and never-hidden confidence. He previously explained, “Sometimes I exaggerate my words on purpose to instill more confidence in myself. Doing so makes me feel even more assured and helps me perform better in my races.”
His mindset—where meticulous preparation leads to confidence, resulting in even stronger performances—can be described as Jiwon’s Bright Mindset.
Just as the positivity of popular idol Jang Won Young is often referred to as “Won Young’s Bright Mindset,” and phrases like “Lucky Vicky” have gained traction, Park Ji Won is aiming for the top of this competition with his own “Jiwon’s Bright Mindset.”
Meanwhile, Park Ji Won will begin his first event at the Games on Friday, competing in the men’s 1500m quarterfinals at 10:30 a.m.