Why Korea is where future Paralympians come to dream big

South Korea has been hosting an annual youth camp for athletes with disabilities for well over a decade and our Park Kun-woo spoke to some of this year's participants.

Do take a listen.

Running at full speed without falling.

Drenched in sweat, but still smiling.

16-year-old John, who has dwarfism, dreams of one day competing on the Olympic stage, representing his country as a badminton player.

He's been training hard -already around a decade since he first picked up a racket.

Nothing stops him from pushing limits; instead, he's eager to keep improving.

"I want a new experience for me. Korea is more advanced in training and they, giving knowledge for our players. They have so much respect for others. I like that"

John is one of around 60 participants from 16 different countries who came to Korea this summer to take part in the annual international Para sports youth camp in Icheon, Gyeonggi-do Province.

And, determination was shown across the court, where shuttlecocks flew rapidly, with players, some in wheelchairs, moving back and forth with precision and speed.

This year's program not only features badminton but also powerlifting and archery, offering young athletes with disabilities the opportunity to train and dream big.

"This barbell feels heavy to me. But for them? It seems like it's almost no big deal. It's not the body that holds them back but it's the strength inside that drives them forward."

At the weightlifting gym, effort and spirit echoed with every lift.

Some may not be able to use all parts of their body, but that hasn't stopped them from lifting bars and chasing their goals.

"I want to go to the Paralympics and be a champion so I can earn money and make my parents proud. So, I need to stay disciplined and train consistently, especially here where the facility's good."

Even when facing physical barriers, these young lifters stayed focused and consistent.

Korea, an archery powerhouse, is also sharing its expertise with these future champions.

Coaches are helping the participants to adjust their posture and techniques.

"Just like everyone's bone structure is different, each person's disability and range of movement also varies. So, we teach them based on each athlete's condition and strength. Even for complete beginners, we structure training step-by-step and make sure it's fun and sustainable."

In the end, what matters isn't the physical ability, but the will.

And with that in mind, these young athletes continue to run, lift, and aim, toward their dreams.

Park Kun-woo, Arirang News, Icheon.