South Korea’s fencing team members Kang Young-mi, Lee Hye-in, Choi In-jeong, and Song Se-ra are disappointed after losing to France in the quarterfinals of the women’s epee team fencing event at the 2024 Paris Olympics held at the Grand Palais in Paris, France on the afternoon of the 30th (Korean time).
The women’s epee fencing team, which ambitiously challenged for the gold medal, was eliminated in the first round. They shed tears and expressed their regret.
Korea, consisting of Kang Young-mi (39, Gwangju Seo-gu Office), Choi In-jeong (34, Gyeryong City Hall), Song Se-ra (31, Busan City Hall), and Lee Hye-in (29, Gangwon Provincial Office), lost to France 31-37 in the quarterfinals of the women’s epee team event at the 2024 Paris Olympics held at the Grand Palais in Paris, France on the 30th (Korean time). Korea, which won
a silver medal with the same team at the Tokyo Olympics held three years ago, was aiming for the gold medal in this competition. With a world ranking of 2nd, it seemed quite possible.
However, they were unlucky to meet the host country France in the first game. France, who received enthusiastic support from their home fans, was ahead of Korea throughout, and Korea never took the lead and was dragged along. They
were behind by 4 points, but ace Song Se-ra came out as the last runner and fought hard, but it was not enough.
The Korean players who met at the joint press area after the game could not hold back their tears. They trusted and relied on each other and promised to win a medal, but they were disappointed that they could not achieve their goal.
The eldest sister, Kang Young-sook, said, “We did our best, but it was a game where we were both burdened. It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t show our skills,” and “I feel sorry and grateful to my younger siblings who did their best,” and her eyes were red.
Ace Song Se-ra also said, “We were nervous a lot, so our performance was disappointing,” and “Everyone prepared hard, but it wasn’t the result we wanted. It’s a game that leaves a lot of regret,” and shed tears. Choi In-jeong, who didn’t play in the quarterfinals but watched from behind, was also disappointed. She said, “We came here with the determination to win the gold medal, and many people must have cheered us on, but I’m sorry that we couldn’t keep that promise.” She continued, “I know how my teammates feel when they play, and all I can do to help them is cheer them on. I want to tell them that they did a good job, thinking that they showed everything they practiced.” When Choi In-jeong’s voice trembled as if she was overcome with emotion, the other players couldn’t hold back tears again. However, the Olympics for the Korean women’s epee aren’t over yet. Korea has two matches left in the rankings. The players showed special affection by hugging each other’s waists while giving tearful interviews. 안전놀이터