Head of South Korea’s sports committee criticizes Games organizers in Japan — Korea Herald

Ryu Seung-min, president of the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, criticized the organizers of the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, over problems with accommodating and transporting athletes. As Korea Herald reports, he said the organization of the competition deserves a failing grade because the difficulties are affecting athletes’ performances.

Transport and accommodation problems

According to Ryu Seung-min, the situation has gradually improved since the start of the tournament, but problems with accommodation and transport remain. He stressed that the organizing committee should not make excuses if such disruptions continue.

South Korea’s men’s basketball team canceled its morning training session before the gold medal game against Japan after the shuttle that was supposed to take the players to the training facility did not arrive. Earlier, the South Korean and Qatari football teams were mistakenly taken to a baseball stadium instead of a football arena before a group-stage match. The teams arrived at the venue about 30 minutes later than scheduled.

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Mistakes during ceremonies

Before a match involving South Korea’s men’s field hockey team, North Korea’s anthem was also played. At medal ceremonies, South Korea was announced as the Republic of China. Ryu Seung-min said it is difficult to completely prevent mistakes such as playing the wrong anthem, but they must be addressed as quickly as possible.

The publication notes that representatives of China and Vietnam have also complained about organizational problems. Ryu Seung-min added that South Korean athletes are still moving toward their initial goal of winning about 45 gold medals.