Korean Short Track Speed Skater Kim Geon Woo Passes Away At 28, Just Months After Retirement

Kim Geon Woo, who represented Korea as one of its top short track speed skaters, has passed away at the age of 28, leaving fans and the skating community in shock. The news came just three months after he announced his retirement from the sport.

On September 23, a heartbreaking notice was shared through Kim Geon Woo’s account. Those close to him wrote, “Please understand with a generous heart that we are unable to respond to everyone individually due to this sudden and devastating news,” adding, “We would be grateful if you could send warm condolences and prayers for his eternal rest as he makes his final journey.” His cause of death has not been disclosed.

Kim Geon Woo had announced his retirement on June 22, sharing, “I’ve decided to let go of short track, which has been my entire life since I was young,” and “Thank you for being with me during the brightest moments of my life. I’ll always support the future of short track,” in a heartfelt farewell message at the time.

Born in 1998, Kim Geon Woo wore the national team mark and was a core member of Korea’s men’s short track team, showcasing dominant skill on the ice. He rose to No. 1 in the ISU World Cup 1500m rankings during the 2018-2019 season, cementing his presence in the sport, and after a comeback, led the team through a standout stretch by sweeping individual gold medals at World Cup events in the 2023-2024 season.

At the 2025 Harbin Winter Asian Games, he competed in the mixed 2000m relay, helping the national team secure a gold medal. However, due to the aftermath of an injury, he remained a reserve member during the selection trials for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics and never got to step onto the Olympic stage he had dreamed of, ultimately deciding to leave the ice for good. The skating community and fans are expressing deep condolences for him following his sudden passing.