Viktor An's Korean TV comeback sparks intense public backlash

The Korea Times - Nov 14, 2026

Seven years after stepping away from domestic television, former Olympic short track legend Viktor An — formerly known as Ahn Hyun-soo — is once again at the center of a public storm. His upcoming appearance on Korean television has reignited fierce debates over national identity, sports loyalty and public sentiment. According to broadcasting network TV Chosun, An is set to appear as a "hidden coach" on the upcoming sports reality show "Speed Queen," premiering on Nov. 25. The program follows aspiring athletes as they prepare for national team selection trials and features an elite coaching panel that includes a retired short track speed skater and four-time Olympic gold medalist Chun Lee-kyung and Kim A-rang, a former short track speed skater who is currently active as a broadcaster and sports commentator. For An, who has kept a low profile since January 2019, the role marks a high-stakes return to the Korean spotlight. The announcement instantly triggered heavy backlash across online communities and social media platforms in Korea. Critics zeroed in on his history of changing natio

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