Olympic Debut: Figure Skater Lee Hae-in Finds Inspiration
Figure skater Lee Hae-in is set to make her Olympic debut at the upcoming 2026 Milan/Cortina D’Ampezzo Winter Olympics. Drawing inspiration from senior athlete Cha Jun-hwan, she aims to overcome her nerves and showcase her talent on the ice.
Upcoming Olympic Participation
Lee Hae-in will compete in the women’s single figure skating short program on February 18, 2026, at the Milan Ice Skating Arena. This event marks her first Olympic appearance and she will perform after fellow competitor Shin Ji-ah.
Preparation and Mindset
- Lee Hae-in arrived in Korea on December 4, 2023, focusing on adjusting to the ice.
- She did not participate in the previous team event, prioritizing personal adaptation.
- Expressing her excitement, she stated, “The Olympics is a really big stage.”
Throughout her preparation, Lee has shown determination to produce strong results. She emphasized the importance of this opportunity, noting her desire to cherish each moment and interact with athletes from various sports disciplines.
Inspiration from Senior Cha Jun-hwan
Lee visited the stadium to support Cha Jun-hwan during his recent performances. He impressed audiences with a total score of 273.92 points, finishing fourth overall. Lee reflected on her admiration for Cha, stating, “Each successful jump was amazing.”
Cultural Expression in Performance
For her short program, Lee Hae-in will skate to “Seiren,” composed by Christopher Tin. This piece draws from Greek mythology, featuring the enchanting sirens. She aims to portray the essence of a mermaid through her choreography and costume, designed to evoke mystery and allure.
Goals and Aspirations
- Lee aims to express her artistic vision in her performance.
- She hopes to connect with the audience emotionally during her routine.
- Her finishing move will end with open arms, signifying her expression and engagement with viewers.
As she prepares for her Olympic debut, Lee Hae-in’s journey reflects both personal ambition and the influence of seasoned athletes in her sport. She is determined to make memories and fulfill her dreams while competing on the international stage.
