SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — The South Korean Olympic Committee announced plans to recognize the country’s top performer at the Paris Summer Games with its own MVP award, complete with a monetary prize.
According to Yonhap News Agency, president of the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee (KSOC), the decision was shared with Yonhap News Agency on Friday. This MVP award, first introduced at last year's Hangzhou Asian Games, will be given following the 17-day competition which begins with the opening ceremony Friday evening. Past recipients, archer Lim Si-hyeon and swimmer Kim Woo-min, who each claimed three gold medals, were awarded 30 million won (approximately US$21,645).
Lee, who spoke at a meeting with coaches in the athletes' village, also highlighted the importance of coaching staff in athletes' performance, announcing that prizes will be awarded to coaches based on their contributions during the games. He emphasized the committee’s efforts to support athletes, including the establishment of a Korea-only camp in Fontainebleau, featuring specialized training facilities and amenities, which has been well received by the team.
Expressing optimism, Lee remarked on South Korea's goal of surpassing their modest five gold medal target, citing the unpredictable nature of competition and the potential of the athletes' "youthful energy."