South Korea qualified for the 2026 World Cup for the 11th consecutive time, achieving a historic feat. Despite fan discontent towards the football association and coach Hong Myung-bo, the team remained undefeated throughout the Asian qualifiers. Son Heung-min concluded his decade-long tenure at Tottenham with a Europa League title and has quickly become a star in MLS, earning the MLS Goal of the Year award. Badminton star An Se-young achieved a record-breaking 10 tournament wins in 2025 and was named the BWF Female Player of the Year for the third consecutive year. In domestic K League news, Jeonbuk Hyundai achieved a historic 'double' winning both the K League 1 and Korea Cup, while Ulsan HD faced internal turmoil and a disappointing season. Daegu FC was relegated, while Jeju SK survived through a playoff against Suwon Samsung.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has voted to lift restrictions on Russian chess players, allowing them to compete under their national flag and anthem. While a majority of delegates supported the move, FIDE will consult with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) before finalizing the implementation. Russia has welcomed the decision as a step towards the 'depoliticization of sport,' but cautions against any deviation from the agreed-upon terms. The decision follows a complex history of sanctions and appeals, and comes after the IOC recently recommended allowing young Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national symbols. The final decision hinges on the IOC's stance.

Following a thaw in relations between Russia and the IOC, Russian luge athletes are expected to compete in Lake Placid next week, sparking strong condemnation from Ukrainian athletes who argue it violates principles of neutrality amidst the ongoing war. This move, facilitated by the International Luge Federation and supported by Russian officials, comes as other federations consider allowing Russian athletes in bobsleigh and skeleton. The situation highlights a growing divide, with Ukrainian athletes expressing concerns about safety and fair play, while Russia aims for a gradual return to international competition. The IOC's stance of allowing 'Individual Neutral Athletes' has created a complex landscape, with federations making divergent decisions and Ukrainian officials raising concerns about the neutrality of some Russian athletes, including figure skaters. The situation is further complicated by the recent change of nationality by Ukrainian athlete Sofiia Lyskun.

This week in Korea is marked by significant events including a parliamentary hearing regarding Coupang's data breach, the final results of a special investigation into the 12/3 emergency decree, and a court verdict in a related case. President Lee is holding weekly briefings with ministries and met with the Lao President. Additionally, a court will deliver verdicts on charges related to a 2019 parliamentary clash, and the US and South Korea are beginning regular consultations on North Korea policy. KT is finalizing its selection for a new CEO, and the Bank of Korea will release November's producer price index.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has voiced disappointment regarding construction delays at the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Concerns include rink size, ice quality, and the lack of a 'plan B' if issues persist. The compressed testing window and potential impact on NHL player safety are key concerns, with the league stating games will not proceed if the ice is deemed unsafe. The International Olympic Committee acknowledges the challenges but remains optimistic, stating that concerns have been resolved with the NHL.