GANGWON PROVINCE – As the international sports community turns its eyes toward Italy for the upcoming Winter Paralympics, South Korea is launching its own premier domestic stage. The 23rd National Para Winter Games officially commences tomorrow, January 27, serving as a critical final rehearsal for the nation’s elite para-athletes.
Hosted by the Korea Para Sports Association (KPSA) and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the four-day event will run through January 30 across various venues in Gangwon State.
A Massive Gathering of Talent
This year’s Games marks a significant milestone in the history of Korean disability sports. A total of 1,127 participants—comprising 486 athletes and 641 officials and staff—representing 17 major cities and provinces have converged in Gangwon.
Under the inspiring slogan, "Challenge Toward Dreams! Soar in Gangwon!", the competition will feature seven core winter disciplines. The distribution of events highlights the world-class infrastructure left behind by the PyeongChang 2018 Legacy:
PyeongChang (Alpensia & Phoenix Park): Nordic Skiing (Cross-country & Biathlon), Alpine Skiing, and Snowboarding.
Gangneung (Hockey & Curling Centres): Para Ice Hockey and Wheelchair Curling.
Chuncheon (Songam Sports Town): Para Ice Skating (Short Track).
The Final Prelude to Milano-Cortina 2026
The timing of this year’s National Games is particularly poignant. With the 14th Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics scheduled to open this coming March, the domestic competition is being viewed as a "litmus test" for South Korea’s medal hopefuls.
Spectators will have the rare opportunity to see world-class athletes in peak form. For many members of the national team, these Games represent the final chance to fine-tune their techniques and mental fortitude under competitive pressure before heading to Italy.
"The National Para Winter Games have been the bedrock of our winter sports growth since 2004," stated a representative from the Ministry. "This 23rd edition is more than a domestic trophy race; it is a platform for our athletes to prove they are ready to take on the world in Milano-Cortina."
Cultivating a Culture of Inclusion
Beyond the scoreboards, the Games aim to expand the culture of para-sports enjoyment across the peninsula. Since its inception 23 years ago, the event has evolved from a small-scale competition into a comprehensive festival that promotes accessibility and challenges social perceptions of disability.
The organizers have ensured that the event remains accessible to the public, with free admission to all venues. This initiative aims to encourage local residents and tourists to experience the intensity and skill of para-winter sports firsthand.
How to Follow the Action
For those unable to attend in person, the Korea Para Sports Association is providing extensive digital coverage:
Official Results: Detailed schedules and standings can be found at the official website (chg.koreanpc.kr).
Behind-the-Scenes: Live updates, athlete interviews, and human-interest stories are being shared via the KPSA official blog.
As the torch is lit in Gangwon, the message is clear: the journey to the Paralympic podium in Italy starts here, on the snow and ice of Korea.
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