Why SUNGHOON ENHYPEN? The former youth figure skater's dream came true, even though not as an athlete, representing South Korea by carrying the torch at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
On 6 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Park SUNGHOON, the handsome member of ENHYPEN, appeared as South Korea's representative and promotional ambassador for the Korean Sports and Olympic Committee, running with the torch amid the sacred atmosphere of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Years ago, SUNGHOON was South Korea's hope in figure skating. He spent nearly his entire life training hard before deciding to retire from skating to pursue a career as an idol. Still, the dream of experiencing the Olympic atmosphere remained a deep motivation..
Park SUNGHOON, member of boy band ENHYPEN and former figure skater, attended a press conference at Korea House in Milan on 5 Feb 2026 GMT+7 after completing his role as one of the torchbearers for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
At the press conference, SUNGHOON revealed, "My first dream was to skate at the Olympics, but I chose to follow my second dream as an idol. Even though I am now in a different career, I feel that today I have realized my dream." He added it was a great honor to be here promoting Korean sports as an honorary ambassador for the Korean Sports and Olympic Committee (KSOC).
SUNGHOON, who earned silver medals at the Asian Open in 2016 and 2017 as a youth, spoke about his old friends Cha Junhwan and Kim Hyungyum, who are representing South Korea in this competition.
"It feels like just yesterday we were training together. I'm very happy to see them at the Olympics after all these years. I know how hard they've worked, and I will be cheering for them in Tuesday's competition."
Beyond his personal role, ENHYPEN has conveyed energy through the song 'SHOUT OUT,' which has become an anthem motivating South Korean athletes this year, making SUNGHOON and his group important in perfectly connecting the worlds of music and sports.
For SUNGHOON, the Olympics was the ultimate goal he trained hard for over 10 years as a figure skater. Though now an idol, carrying the torch is a beautiful and proud way to "make his dream come true," even if not as an athlete. 'Success is not a single path.' The skills and dedication from his days on the ice have shaped him into the strong artist he is today.
This sends a message encouraging people worldwide to dare to dream and start anew, while supporting current athletes. It reflects the enduring friendship central to the Olympics and also represents K-Pop's soft power, drawing global youth interest to winter sports.