South Korean Figure Skater Lee Hae-in Shines at Olympic Debut
Milan/Cortina d’Ampezzo – South Korean figure skater Lee Hae-in made a memorable debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics, captivating audiences during the gala show on Saturday, February 21st. The performance marks a significant moment for the rising star, who has quickly become a prominent figure in the world of figure skating.
Lee Hae-in, born on April 16, 2005, showcased her artistry and skill alongside fellow South Korean Olympian Cha Jun-hwan. The gala event also featured a performance by American skater Ilia Malinin, known for his impressive quad jumps, including a backflip.
The gala show provided a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere, allowing skaters to express their creativity and connect with fans. Cha Jun-hwan expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, “It’s meaningful to finish with a song I like.”
Lee Hae-in’s participation in the Olympics follows a successful career trajectory, including becoming a member of the South Korean junior national team in 2018 and joining the senior national team in 2021. She has already achieved notable international success, securing a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships, a gold medal at the 2023 Four Continents Championships, and a silver medal at the 2022 Four Continents Championships.
The South Korean skaters were also seen posing for commemorative photos with their fellow competitors, highlighting the camaraderie and sportsmanship present at the Olympic Games.
Lee Hae-in currently attends Sehwa Girls’ High School, having previously graduated from Yangjin Elementary School and Hankang Middle School. She began figure skating in 2013 and was selected for the novice national team in 2017, winning the Basic Novice A group at the 2017 Asian Trophy.
Her personal best scores include a total score of 225.47, a short program score of 76.90, and a free skate score of 148.57, all achieved at the 2023 World Team Trophy event.
