Heartbreak in Cortina: South Korean Wheelchair Curling Team Falls Short of Gold Medal Match
A last-minute surge from Canada dashed the hopes of the South Korean wheelchair curling team at the 2026 Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Paralympics. Despite a strong performance throughout the match, the Korean team suffered a devastating 7-8 loss in the semi-final, narrowly missing out on a chance to compete for gold. The defeat, decided by a single point in the final end, was a particularly bitter blow after a dominant run through the round robin stage and a silver medal already secured in the mixed doubles event. The Korean team, comprised of Nam Bong-kwang, Bang Min-ja, Yang Hee-tae, Lee Hyun-chul, and Cha Jin-ho, will now compete for the bronze medal.
The match, held on March 13th at the Cortina Curling Stadium in Italy, was a tense affair from the outset. Canada entered the semi-final as the clear favorites, having completed a perfect 9-0 record in the round robin, according to reports from the Paralympics. The Korean team had previously faced Canada in the preliminary round, suffering a 3-6 defeat, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch. The South Korean team demonstrated resilience and skill, leading for much of the game, but ultimately succumbed to a late rally by their opponents.
A Game of Shifting Momentum
The opening end saw Canada take an early lead, scoring two points. However, the Korean team responded swiftly in the second end, leveling the score with two points of their own. From the third end onwards, the momentum began to swing in Korea’s favor. Despite having the disadvantage of the hammer – the last stone advantage – in the third end, they managed to steal two points, a significant turning point in the match. This skillful play, known as a steal in curling, allowed them to take a 4-2 lead.
The fourth and fifth ends saw both teams exchange single points, maintaining a 4-4 tie. The sixth end proved to be pivotal for the Korean team, as they executed a remarkable three-point end, extending their lead to 7-4. A key moment during this end involved a stunning double takeout by Lee Hyun-chul, removing two Canadian stones from the house, a move described as a game-changing play. This skillful maneuver appeared to set Korea firmly in control, edging them closer to a spot in the final.
Canada, however, refused to concede. In the seventh end, playing with the hammer, they managed to score one point, narrowing the gap to 7-5. This set up a dramatic final end, with Korea holding a narrow advantage and the hammer. The eighth end proved to be a heartbreaker for the Korean team. A series of unexpected errors in their throws allowed Canada to capitalize, strategically placing stones within the house and building protective guards. Canada scored three points in the final end, completing a stunning comeback and securing an 8-7 victory.
Disappointment and Determination
The defeat was visibly devastating for the Korean team. Cha Jin-ho, visibly emotional after the match, expressed the cruel nature of the sport, stating, “Curling is like that, if you can’t perform when it matters most, we lose.” Nam Bong-kwang revealed that his wife, Baek Hyejin, who recently won a silver medal in the mixed doubles event with Lee Yong-seok, had offered words of encouragement before the match, but the team ultimately fell short of achieving their goal. Despite the disappointment, Nam Bong-kwang remained resolute, stating their commitment to competing for the bronze medal.
The Korean team’s journey to the semi-finals was marked by impressive performances and a growing presence in the world of wheelchair curling. Their silver medal win in the mixed doubles event, a first for Korea in 16 years, signaled a new era for the sport in the country. Baek Hyejin and Lee Yong-seok’s silver medal performance against China in the final was a testament to their skill and dedication. This success fueled their momentum heading into the team event, where they demonstrated their ability to compete with the world’s best.
Looking Ahead: Bronze Medal Pursuit
The Korean wheelchair curling team will now face Sweden in the bronze medal match on March 14th at 2:35 AM KST. Sweden also finished the round robin with a 5-4 record, securing their place in the playoffs. The match promises to be a hard-fought contest, as both teams will be determined to claim a spot on the podium. The Korean team will undoubtedly draw strength from their previous successes and the unwavering support of their teammates and nation.
The 2026 Winter Paralympics have showcased the incredible athleticism and determination of athletes with disabilities. Wheelchair curling, a sport requiring precision, strategy, and teamwork, has captivated audiences worldwide. The Korean team’s performance, despite the semi-final setback, has been a source of national pride and has further elevated the profile of para-sport in the country.
The team’s pursuit of a bronze medal represents a final opportunity to add to their Paralympic tally and demonstrate their resilience on the world stage. The match against Sweden will be a crucial test of their character and a chance to end their Paralympic campaign on a high note.
Key Takeaways:
- South Korea lost a narrow 7-8 semi-final match against Canada in wheelchair curling.
- The Korean team led for much of the game but were undone by a late rally from Canada.
- Korea will now compete for the bronze medal against Sweden on March 14th.
- The team has already secured a silver medal in the mixed doubles event at the 2026 Paralympics.
Stay tuned for updates on the bronze medal match and continued coverage of the 2026 Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Paralympics. Share your thoughts and support for the Korean team in the comments below.
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