Gliding into the spotlight, International Skating Union (ISU) President Kim Jae-youl championed China's winter sports revolution in an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene. From ice rinks to national pride, here's why the world is watching ❄️.
China's Ice & Snow Ambitions
Kim highlighted how China's post-Olympic momentum has turned \"snowballed interest\" into year-round engagement. \"Youth programs and high-tech venues are redefining access,\" he said, nodding to initiatives like the ‘300 Million People on Ice’ campaign 🚀.
The Global Freeze Frame
With climate challenges looming, Kim emphasized sustainable event planning and AI-driven training tools shaping athletes’ futures. \"China isn’t just participating—it’s innovating,\" he added, pointing to VR skating sims gaining traction among Gen-Z audiences 🕶️.
Beyond the Podium
The ISU leader sees cultural exchange as winter sports’ secret weapon: \"When a teen in Shanghai shares TikTok clips with a skater in Oslo, that’s how we melt borders.\" 🌏✨
Reference(s):
Talk Sports: ISU chief on evolution of winter sports and China's role
cgtn.com