Korean Sports Ministry Demands Removal of Badminton Association President for Second Time
Trang Napie
Thu Jan 02 2025
The Korean sports scene has been rocked by the ongoing controversy surrounding the Badminton Korea Association (BKA) and its president, Kim Taek-gyu. The recent demands by the Korean Ministry of Sports to remove Kim from his position have highlighted the turmoil within the national badminton governing body.
The Korean Ministry of Sports revealed in a statement that the BKA, under the leadership of Kim Taek-gyu, has made changes in 16 out of 25 areas as requested by the Ministry on October 31, 2024. Despite ongoing adjustments in six areas, three other disputed sectors were rejected by the Ministry last week.
The investigation, initiated after world number one women's singles player An Se-young publicly criticized the national association following her gold medal win at the Paris Olympics, has led to significant alterations. Players are now allowed to compete in overseas tournaments without hindrance if their club covers the expenses. Restrictions based on age and prior national team experience for non-national team players in international competitions have been lifted.
Moreover, athletes can now wear uniforms featuring their sponsor logos, unlike those supported by the BKA. The Ministry disclosed plans for fund distribution for national team athletes in 2020 and permits players to use equipment not produced by BKA sponsors.
Despite the BKA's rejection of the Ministry's allegations of misconduct, the Ministry remains resolute. It dismissed BKA's appeal and intends to impose penalties, including the return of unlawfully disbursed funds, effective from January 1, 2025. The Ministry also plans to demand Kim's dismissal within a month, with Kim reportedly eyeing re-election in January 2025.
The rift between the Korean Ministry of Sports and the BKA underscores the challenges faced by the badminton community. As the saga unfolds, the future governance of Korean badminton remains uncertain. The efforts to promote transparency and accountability within the association will continue amid calls for Kim's removal.