Seoul: The top national sports body announced on Wednesday that it is taking a recent series of race-fixing allegations in skiing "very seriously" and is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The Korean Sport and Olympic Committee (KSOC) also pledged to impose stern disciplinary measures if any illegal or unfair acts are confirmed.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the KSOC issued a statement in response to allegations initially reported by a local newspaper earlier this month. The report alleged that a ski cross coach instructed an athlete to intentionally interfere with other skiers to ensure that athletes from the coach's private academy would secure high finishes. Another report claimed that a former national para snowboard cross team head coach was attempting to secure a spot for his daughter on the national squad for the 2025-2026 season.

The police have opened an investigation into the former case, with both the coach and a referee at the competition facing charges of obstruction of justice, among others. "We view the recent controversy in skiing very seriously," the KSOC statement read. "We have consistently stressed that fair play is not simply a matter of choice but is fundamental in sport. We will not accept any behavior that hurts integrity and the spirit of fair play. We will do our best to help restore trust in the national team selection process and overall operations."