Gwangju: While preparing for his first world championship on home soil, South Korean recurve archer Lee Woo-seok faced immense stress, even requiring a visit to the emergency room due to an illness.
According to Yonhap News Agency, despite Lee's extensive international experience, including a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the pressure of competing at the World Archery Championships in front of a home crowd was overwhelming for the 28-year-old. Leaning on teammates Kim Woo-jin and Kim Je-deok, who have been by his side for years, Lee found the support he needed to persevere.
On Wednesday, at the May 18 Democracy Plaza in Gwangju, approximately 270 kilometers south of Seoul, the South Korean team clinched another title by defeating the United States 6-0 in the men's team final. This victory marked their third consecutive world title in the men's recurve team event.
Lee expressed his concerns about his health affecting the team but credited his teammates for their unwavering support. Despite his initial worries, Lee performed admirably, contributing significantly to the team's success.
Kim Woo-jin, the senior member of the team, acknowledged the constant pressure on South Korean archers at international competitions. He emphasized the importance of remaining focused on their performance rather than external expectations, noting the upcoming challenges at the Asian Games and future Olympics.
Kim Je-deok, the youngest team member, provided emotional support to Lee, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the process rather than the results. The team managed to overcome the U.S. team, which included world No. 1 Brady Ellison, without dropping a set.
The victory was particularly sweet for Kim Woo-jin, who had faced earlier setbacks in individual and mixed team events. Despite these losses, Kim remained philosophical, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports and his determination to improve.
With the team gold secured, Lee and Kim Je-deok advanced to the round of 16 in the individual event, now free from the burden of expectations. During the medal ceremony, the team honored their late coach, Park Sung-soo, who had guided them to Olympic success, with a moment of silence.
The team expressed their gratitude for Park's guidance and paid their respects to him from the podium, reflecting on his significant influence on their achievements.