It's Not About the 'Physical Contact Controversy'... Why Was the Samcheok Athletics Team Coach Suspended?

Kim Wanki Marathon Coach Suspended for 18 Months
Neglect of Duty, Abuse of Authority, Human Rights Violations, and Harassment Cited
No Details Related to Inappropriate Physical Contact Included

Kim Wanki, head coach of the Samcheok City Hall athletics team in Gangwon Province, who was embroiled in controversy over inappropriate physical contact with a team athlete during a marathon event, has received a severe disciplinary action of an 18-month suspension. However, the disciplinary action was imposed for abuse of authority and neglect of duty, and did not include allegations of inappropriate physical contact or sexual harassment as reasons for the complaint.

Coach Kim Wanki Suspended for 18 Months Amid 'Female Athlete Physical Contact Controversy'

The moment Lee Sumin (Samcheok City Hall), who finished first in the women's category at the 2025 Incheon International Marathon, crossed the finish line. Photo by KBS Sports

According to the Samcheok City Sports Council on December 11, the city council convened the Sports Fairness Committee the previous day and decided to suspend Kim Wanki for 18 months for neglect of duty, abuse of authority, human rights violations, and harassment.

On the same day, the city sports council delivered the disciplinary decision to Coach Kim and the athletes, and provided guidance on the appeals process. The disciplinary action takes effect from the day the decision is received, and an appeal can be filed within seven days of receipt.

Previously, on November 23, during the '2025 Incheon International Marathon,' Coach Kim became the subject of controversy after allegedly making inappropriate physical contact with his athlete, Lee Sumin, immediately after she crossed the finish line while attempting to cover her with a towel. Lee Sumin forcefully brushed off Coach Kim's hand and grimaced, a scene that was broadcast live on television.

Afterward, online reactions included comments such as, "The athlete's expression looks extremely uncomfortable," "His hand went excessively below the waist," and "What must he have done before for her to react like that?" raising suspicions of sexual harassment.

"Abuse of Authority and Neglect of Duty Are the Main Issues... No Details Related to Inappropriate Physical Contact Included"

The moment Lee Sumin (Samcheok City Hall), who finished first in the women's category at the 2025 Incheon International Marathon, crossed the finish line. Photo by KBS Sports

As the controversy grew, Lee Sumin made a statement on her social media account on November 25, but distanced herself from the sexual harassment allegations raised by some.

Subsequently, five current and former members of the athletics team, including Lee Sumin, submitted a petition to the Sports Fairness Committee regarding Coach Kim Wanki. However, as previously stated, the petition did not include allegations of sexual harassment or inappropriate physical contact.

The petition detailed Coach Kim's usual communication style and behavior, dissatisfaction with the team's preparation for competitions, and matters related to contracts. Three athletes, including Lee Sumin, appeared before the Sports Fairness Committee the previous day to explain these issues.

Coach Kim is barred from participating in any sports-related activities, including as an athlete, coach, referee, athlete manager, or organizational executive, until the suspension is lifted. Kim Wanki, who has led the team since its founding in 2022, will see his contract expire at the end of this month.

Although Kim has not made an official statement to Samcheok City regarding his future, it is known that he recently visited the city sports council and verbally expressed his intention to resign. Accordingly, his future will likely be determined soon, following any appeal process if filed.