The South Korean delegation, having clinched second place overall at the 2025 Harbin Winter Asian Games, is set to return home. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has announced that a welcome ceremony will take place this Saturday evening at the arrival hall of Terminal 1 at Incheon International Airport.
While athletes in sports like figure skating and skiing have already returned after completing their events, about 80 curling, ice hockey, and biathlon team members will be arriving the same day after attending the closing ceremony on Friday.
Deputy Minister Jang Mi Ran of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Yoon Seong Wook, Secretary General of the Korean Olympic Committee, and Choi Hong Hoon, Chef de Mission of Team South Korea, will attend the event. Jang will present flowers to the athletes to acknowledge their strong performances, while Choi Hong Hoon will summarize the delegation’s achievements.
As of Friday, the final day of competition, South Korea had earned 15 gold, 14 silver, and 13 bronze medals, securing second place behind China, which earned 32 gold, 26 silver, and 24 bronze medals. Although four additional gold medals will be awarded in men’s and women’s curling and ice hockey, third-place Japan, with 9 gold, 11 silver, and 14 bronze medals, cannot surpass South Korea, even if they win all remaining golds.
This marks South Korea’s second consecutive runner-up finish at the Winter Asian Games, following their second-place finish at the 2017 Sapporo Games.
Jang commented, “I congratulate our athletes for their exceptional performances in challenging conditions. Their passion and sportsmanship throughout the Games have inspired and brought joy to our nation.”