(Asiad) Top S. Korean sports official blasts organizers for shoddy operations

NAGOYA, Japan, Sept. 24 (Yonhap) -- South Korean National Olympic Committee head Ryu Seung-min harshly criticized the organizers of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games for their poor management and operations, stating he would give them a failing grade. During a press conference at the Main Press Centre in Nagoya, Ryu addressed multiple issues, including athletes' accommodations and transportation, which he believes have negatively impacted athletes' performances.

Ryu, a former Olympic table tennis champion and former International Olympic Committee member, compared the situation unfavorably to other international events he has attended, insisting an "F" grade is warranted if athletes' performances are affected. He emphasized that persistent problems like these signify serious incompetence and cannot be tolerated with excuses from the organizing committee.

South Korean athletes have faced various challenges, such as a delayed shuttle for the men's basketball team on the day of their gold medal game against Japan, and South Korea being introduced as "Republic of China" during medal ceremonies. Other countries, including China, Vietnam, and North Korea, have also voiced concerns about operational issues. Ryu assured swift responses to these problems and pledged to maintain sports as a platform for unity.