Tokoname:South Korea's fencing team completed their Asian Games campaign by securing four golds, four silvers, and two bronze medals at the Aichi Sky Expo, south of Nagoya. This marked the country's lowest gold medal haul in 16 years, as they now set their sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea finished second in the fencing medal tally, behind host nation Japan, which claimed six golds, two silvers, and three bronzes. This outcome ended South Korea's streak of dominance in the Asian Games fencing events since 2010, when they first topped the standings with seven golds.
Despite the results, South Korean fencing officials noted that the four gold medals met their expectations. Key achievements included Oh Sang-uk's successful defense of his individual sabre title and his contribution to the men's sabre team event, which secured a fourth consecutive gold. Meanwhile, Song Se-ra won the women's epee individual title, and the women's sabre team triumphed for the first time in eight years.
The men's epee team also achieved a notable silver medal after defeating Japan, the defending Asiad champion and Olympic silver medalist, in the semifinals. Looking ahead, South Korean fencing is concentrating on preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with plans to involve close cooperation with the federation, coaches, and sponsors.
An official from the Korean Fencing Federation emphasized the continued use of the artificial intelligence analysis program that contributed to their performance at the Asian Games, alongside providing comprehensive medical and mental healthcare programs.