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President Lee hosts luncheon for athletes from Winter Paralympics

Published: 20 Mar. 2026, 20:15 Updated: 21 Mar. 2026, 15:23

President Lee Jae Myung and first lady Kim Hea Kyung pose for a photo with the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics team after a luncheon at the Blue House in Jongno District, central Seoul, on March 20. [YONHAP]

President Lee Jae Myung on Friday hosted a luncheon for athletes who competed in the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games, praising their performance and unwavering spirit in overcoming challenges.

Lee said the Korean athletes demonstrated remarkable resilience, adding that the public will long remember the inspiration they provided during this year's Winter Games.

Korea finished 13th with two gold medals, four silver medals and one bronze medal at the Milan-Cortina Paralympic Games, marking its best-ever result at a Winter Paralympics.

"As athletes representing Korea, you pushed beyond your limits and delivered deep inspiration and pride to the people and audiences around the world," Lee said during the luncheon at the Blue House in central Seoul.

"The government will actively support people with disabilities so they can build confidence and a sense of achievement through sports and lead healthy lives," he added.

Lee highlighted the standout performance by para cross-country skier Kim Yun-ji, who won two gold medals and three silver medals — the highest number earned by a Korean athlete in a single edition of the Olympics or Paralympics.

Kim expressed gratitude for public support, saying the Korean team achieved its best-ever performance and describing it as a "happy time" to hear the national anthem played.

Yonhap