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[Sports Seoul | Milan = Kim Min-kyu Reporter] “I’m committed to making the Olympics more exciting and beloved.”
Kim Jae-yeol, 58, a key figure in ice skating diplomacy, has been elected to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board. This isn’t just another position; it’s a symbolic milestone showcasing South Korea’s rising prominence in the global sports arena.
During a press conference on February 9 (Korean time) at the ‘Home of Skating’ in Milan’s NH Hotel Congress Center, Kim spoke with quiet determination: “While it’s a great personal honor, the sense of responsibility is even more profound. This achievement is a testament to the trust Korean sports have built over the years.”
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On February 4, Kim secured his position on the executive board at the 145th IOC General Assembly, held at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics Main Media Center. He received a resounding 84 out of 100 valid votes. His four-year term comes with the possibility of re-election, making him the second Korean to hold this position since the late Kim Un-yong, a former IOC vice president.
The IOC Executive Board, comprising the president, vice presidents, and committee members, is the organization’s highest decision-making body. It shapes key policies and selects Olympic host cities. Kim’s appointment signifies South Korea’s return to the forefront of international sports diplomacy.
Kim confidently highlighted South Korea’s Olympic hosting credentials: “We’ve successfully hosted three Olympics: the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games, the 1988 Seoul Summer Games, and the upcoming 2024 Gangwon Winter Youth Olympics. Our world championships and World Cup events consistently receive high praise. This track record has built significant trust.”
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This naturally led to discussions about Jeonbuk’s bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics. Kim addressed this topic cautiously, stating, “The hosting methods and procedures are still under review. Once we finalize our approach, we can then consider the next steps.”
Kim’s expertise lies in ice skating. Since becoming ISU president in 2022, he’s been a catalyst for change. He introduced video replay in short track to enhance judging accuracy and transparency, and implemented LED displays in figure skating to improve spectator engagement. He’s also been bold in recruiting external experts, bringing in proven talent from various sports to strengthen the ISU system.
These efforts led to the ISU’s ‘New DNA’ initiative, embodying the philosophy of being “Inspiring, Supportive, Unstoppable.” This naturally aligns with engaging younger generations, a point Kim repeatedly emphasized: “Ice skating is popular, but we can’t rest on our laurels. Without the enthusiasm of young people, we have no future.”
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Kim expressed particular enthusiasm about collaborating with Kirsty Coventry, the IOC chair spearheading the next major reform initiative, ‘Fit for the Future.’
“We have numerous ideas to make the Olympics more accessible, transparent, and entertaining,” Kim stated. “I’m eager to share the insights gained at the ISU. My mission is to make the entire Olympic experience more enjoyable and beloved. That’s the challenge I’ve taken on,” he emphasized. kmg@sportsseoul.com
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