A Call for Restoration of the Sports Hero Selection Project
Representative Lim Oh-kyung, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea and the Secretary of the Culture and Sports Committee, has strongly urged the government to restore the budget for the Korea Sports Council’s sports hero selection project. This initiative, which has been instrumental in recognizing and honoring outstanding athletes, was recently suspended due to financial constraints.
The Korea Sports Council has a long history of identifying and celebrating remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to Korean sports. Notable figures include the late Son Ki-jung, a marathon legend, and the late Kim Sung-jip, a weightlifting champion. More recently, Ha Hyung-joo, chairman of the National Sports Promotion Foundation, was honored as a sports hero after winning a gold medal in judo at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. However, this year, the project faced an unexpected halt due to insufficient funding.
The Budget Crisis and Government Response
During a parliamentary session, Representative Lim raised concerns about the project’s suspension. He pointed out that while the project had previously been supported by the national treasury, it was later excluded from such funding. As a result, the Korea Sports Council allocated 160 million won from its own budget to continue the initiative. However, the lack of sufficient funds from the sports associations led to the project’s temporary shutdown.
When Yoo Seung-min, chairman of the Korea Sports Council, apologized for the situation, Representative Lim pressed further, asking, “What do the government think about the reality that even top global sports nations cannot be recognized as sports heroes because they don’t have 160 million won?” His question highlighted the growing concern over the financial barriers preventing the recognition of deserving athletes.
Questions About the Allocation of Sports Funds
Representative Lim also addressed Ha Hyung-joo, chairman of the National Sports Promotion Foundation, questioning how much of the sports promotion fund is used to support culture, arts, and films. He noted that in 2025, the Culture and Arts Fund will provide 110 billion won and 60 billion won for movies.
“Does it make sense to be unable to conduct the sports hero induction ceremony because there is no 160 million won?” he asked. Ha responded by saying, “I heard the story for the first time today.” He admitted that he was unaware of the specific budget allocation for the project and promised to work with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to resolve the issue.
A Strong Demand for Restoration
Representative Lim emphasized that while there have been criticisms of misconduct and illegal activities in recent parliamentary inspections, many athletes, leaders, and sports organizations have worked tirelessly to promote Korean sports. He questioned whether the country should abandon the sports hero initiative simply because of a lack of 160 million won.
“Please restore it by all means,” he demanded strongly. His remarks reflect a broader call for greater investment in sports and the recognition of those who have contributed to the nation’s sporting legacy.
Broader Implications for Korean Sports
The controversy surrounding the sports hero selection project highlights a larger issue within the Korean sports sector: the need for sustainable funding and support for initiatives that celebrate athletic excellence. While the project may seem like a symbolic gesture, it plays a crucial role in inspiring future generations of athletes and preserving the cultural significance of sports in Korea.
As the debate continues, the voices of representatives like Lim Oh-kyung serve as a reminder that the value of sports extends beyond competition—it is also about recognition, inspiration, and the preservation of national heritage.
With ongoing discussions about budget allocations and the importance of supporting sports-related projects, the hope remains that the sports hero selection initiative will soon be revived, ensuring that Korea’s greatest athletes are honored and celebrated.