Who Is Woo Jinhyeok, Gyeongnam's Only High School Equestrian Athlete?

From Sweeping National Competitions to Representing Korea in the Korea-Japan Match

Kimhae Yulha High School's Woo Jinhyeok, the only high school equestrian athlete currently active in Gyeongnam, is drawing attention for his remarkable achievements at national competitions.

Woo Jinhyeok student.

Although he attends a regular high school rather than a specialized arts or sports school, he is excelling on the national stage, competing confidently against elite athletes while balancing the challenges of both academics and athletics.

In May, Woo Jinhyeok claimed first place overall in the High School 100class division of the '2025 Spring National Student Equestrian Competition,' organized and hosted by the Korea Student Equestrian Association. He made a stunning debut by winning the championship at his very first high school-level competition.

Woo Jinhyeok's pure obstacle biwol game appearance.

He then participated in the '3rd Yeongcheon Mayor's Cup National Equestrian Competition,' where he rode a Korean horse and successfully completed the 120class event on his first attempt, further enhancing both his experience and skills. This rapid growth quickly translated into results. At the 52nd Korea-Japan Equestrian Competition National Team Selection, he was ultimately chosen as a junior national representative, achieving the honor of representing Korea on the international stage.

Woo Jinhyeok stated, "Balancing academics and athletics is never easy, but I manage to do it every day with consistency," adding, "I want to continue pursuing both fields and challenge my own limits." On weekdays, he dedicates himself to his studies, while on weekends and after school, he focuses on training, steadily building his passion for equestrian sports.

His quiet diligence and sincerity mean more than just impressive results. Even within the highly competitive elite sports system, Woo Jinhyeok continues to walk his own path without wavering. Even at this very moment, he is riding toward the future of Korean equestrian sports.

His race has only just begun.