Millfield student represents Korea in Alpine Skiing

Year 11 Student Alex Minsung Kim was selected to represent Korea at the Korea–China–Japan Youth Winter Sports Exchange Programme in Hokkaido, widely regarded as a “Mini Youth Winter Olympics” for young elite athletes.

The programme, held from 23–28 February, brought together nationally selected U14 and U16 athletes from Korea, China and Japan, providing a platform for high-level competition and international exchange.

Originally from Seoul, Alex began skiing at the age of four as a family activity, before committing more seriously to alpine skiing as he grew older. Since then, he has progressed through an increasingly demanding international pathway, balancing elite-level sport with academic life at Millfield.

His selection follows a particularly challenging year. In April last year, Alex sustained a serious injury during a race, requiring two surgeries, followed by several months of rehabilitation, during which he also missed a significant amount of school.

Reflecting on this period, Alex said: “It was a very difficult time, but it taught me a lot about resilience and perseverance. Being selected to represent Korea after that made the opportunity even more meaningful.”

Alex was one of only eight boys selected to compete in alpine skiing, underlining both his ability and his determination to return to competition at the highest level.

He described the programme as an unforgettable experience: “It was a great opportunity to train, compete and meet athletes from Japan and China while representing Korea. It has always been one of my dreams to represent my country.”

The programme is fully supported by the Korean government, highlighting its importance in developing future international athletes.

Alex credits Millfield with playing a key role in supporting both his sporting and academic ambitions: “Millfield has been incredibly supportive. Without the help of my Housemaster and teachers, it would have been very difficult to manage everything. Their understanding made a huge difference, especially during my injury and recovery.”

He also reflected on his decision to join the school: “When I was preparing to join Millfield, I read about ‘The Millfield Way’. Having now experienced it, I can see how it genuinely supports students to pursue what they are passionate about alongside their academics.”

Beyond this programme, Alex has gained international experience through events such as the La Scara International Championships and the Whistler Cup, competing alongside some of the best young alpine skiers in the world.

Looking ahead, Alex aims to continue developing both academically and athletically as he progresses into Sixth Form. With increasing demands from both FIS-level competition and academic study, he remains motivated by the challenge.

His long-term ambition is to represent Korea in alpine skiing at the Winter Olympics.