INCHEON, South Korea – A throng of fans greeted the South Korean Olympic team upon its return to Incheon International Airport on Tuesday, with particular attention focused on short track speed skater Kim Gilli, who was transported from the airport in a Lamborghini.
Kim Gilli, who secured two gold medals and one bronze at the 2026 Milan-Cortina d’Winter Olympics, received the luxury vehicle courtesy of Lamborghini Seoul as a special welcome, according to reports. The 22-year-old skater, dubbed “Lamborghini Gilli” by fans for his speed on the ice, expressed his surprise and delight at the gesture.
“It’s like experiencing life as a celebrity,” Kim Gilli said, as quoted by multiple Korean news outlets. “I’m so grateful to everyone for the warm welcome.”
The arrival of the Korean Olympic delegation, including gold medalists Choi Minjeong and Kim Gilli, drew a large crowd to the airport’s Terminal 2. Choi Minjeong, who served as the flag bearer during the closing ceremony, and fellow medalist Hwang Daeheon were met with cheers and applause as they entered the arrival hall.
The South Korean team finished the 2026 Winter Olympics with a total of three gold, four silver, and three bronze medals, placing 13th in the overall medal count. While falling short of a top-10 finish, the team surpassed its performance at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where it secured two gold, five silver, and two bronze medals, finishing 14th.
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwiyeong, who was present at the airport to welcome the athletes, praised their “tenacity and challenging spirit,” stating that their performance had become “a symbol of Korean sports and national pride.”
Kim Gilli was recognized as the most valuable player (MVP) of the Korean team, having secured two gold medals during the games. He expressed his excitement about the Lamborghini and anticipation for his next competition, scheduled for the World Championships in Montreal next month.
“It’s amazing that the nickname has become a reality,” Kim Gilli said, referring to his “Lamborghini Gilli” moniker. “I’m so curious to see what it’s like to drive, I want to strive it out quickly.”
