Kang Seok LEE

Primarily a 500 m specialist, Lee Gang-Seok had his breakthrough season in 2005/2006. After taking his first World Cup race in December 2005, he would go on to win the season's World Cup. Lee also grabbed a bronze medal in the Olympic 500 m, the first Korean speed skating medal since 1992. The following year, he celebrated more successes, becoming World Champion in his favorite distance as well as winning it at the Asian Games. In addition, he lowered the 500 m World Record to 34.25. After winning the 2008 100 m World Cup and winning a second 500 m world title in 2009, Lee Gang-Seok is one of the contenders for the Olympic 500 m title in Vancouver.

Personal Bests: 500 – 34.20 (2007); 1000 – 1:08.15 (2007); 1500 – 1:53.93 (2004); 5000 – 7:28.09 (2001).