Korean Swimming Eyes Gold Again at 2026 Asian Games

South Korean swimming is setting its sights high for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, aiming to build on the unprecedented success of the 2023 Hangzhou Games. Athletes are not just hoping for a repeat but are determined to exceed their previous medal haul of 6 gold, 6 silver, and 10 bronze.

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The records speak for themselves, so it's not a vague goal. It's not impossible to achieve more than (the Hangzhou Games).

Kim Woo-min, a triple gold medalist and MVP at the Hangzhou Games, feels no pressure and is focused on breaking his own records in the 400m freestyle and other events. He is increasing his aerobic training to manage the demands of competing in multiple events, including the 400m, 800m, and 800m freestyle relays. "I expect to win more medals," Kim stated, highlighting his ambition.

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I'm not feeling any pressure because I had so much fun competing at the Hangzhou Games. My goal is to break my records in the 400m, my main event, and other events as well.

Hwang Sun-woo, a prominent figure in Korean swimming, returns to the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, the venue for the swimming events, a place that holds significant meaning for him after his performance at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. "The Tokyo Aquatics Centre is the pool that helped me grow into a good swimmer," Hwang said. He aims to replicate his Olympic performance and is approaching the upcoming games with a focus on giving his best rather than succumbing to pressure, a lesson learned from his experience at the Paris Olympics.

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I'm increasing my aerobic training a lot to improve my stamina, as I'm competing in many events. I expect to win more medals.

The men's 800m freestyle relay is anticipated to be a fierce three-way competition between South Korea, China, and Japan. Beyond the freestyle events, South Korea is also looking for medals in backstroke and butterfly. Lee Ju-ho, a silver medalist in the 200m backstroke at the Hangzhou Games, is determined to leave his mark on Korean swimming history. The team of 51 athletes, including 26 in swimming, is poised for a strong showing.

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The Tokyo Aquatics Centre, where the swimming events will be held, is a pool that helped me grow into a good swimmer. I want to show everything I can, just like at the Tokyo (Olympics).