Shin Woon-seon of South Korea secured his third consecutive ice climbing title at the 107th National Winter Sports Festival, concluding the seasonal event in North Chungcheong Province. The competition, which concluded on March 1st, 2026, featured 170 athletes and officials competing across six winter sports: ice skating, skiing, biathlon, mountaineering, curling, and ice hockey.
The North Chungcheong Province Mountaineering Federation also achieved first place in the comprehensive rankings for the festival, according to event organizers. The festival served as a closing event for the 2025-2026 winter sports season, providing athletes with an opportunity to assess their performance and prepare for upcoming competitions.
While the mountaineering competition saw Shin Woon-seon’s victory, details regarding results in the other five sports were not immediately available. North Chungcheong Province, located in the center of the Korean Peninsula, is uniquely positioned as the only province without coastal access. The region is characterized by mountainous terrain and numerous hot springs, and has historically been a source of prominent leaders throughout the Joseon Dynasty.
The nearby ski resorts, such as Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, offer convenient access for winter sports enthusiasts. Elysian Gangchon, approximately one hour from Seoul by ITX train, is particularly popular among beginners and intermediate skiers, offering ten trails with a focus on gentle slopes and instruction. Other ski resorts near Seoul include Yuzawa Kogen, and several others offering a range of slopes and amenities.
The National Winter Sports Festival’s conclusion follows a season of increased activity at ski resorts near Seoul, with many offering additional attractions like hot springs and snow parks. The 2025/26 season saw a surge in visitors to these resorts, with Klook reporting exclusive access to rest lounges for its customers at locations like Elysian Gangchon.
