# Won Yoo-min Elected as APC Athletes' Committee Chair Won Yoo-min secures historic position as the first IPC-APC athletes' committee representative. - **Source:** [Chosun Ilbo](https://www.chosun.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/67d2ac59-045d-437a-90c0-66cd911cfe76 ## Historic Leadership Appointment Won Yoo-min has been officially elected as the Chairperson of the Asia Paralympic Committee Athletes' Committee. This appointment marks a significant milestone as it represents the first time an individual has held a dual representative role within both the International Paralympic Committee and the Asia Paralympic Committee, strengthening regional athlete advocacy efforts. ## Governmental Support Pledged Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young extended formal congratulations to Won Yoo-min following the election results. The ministry emphasized its commitment to supporting disabled sports initiatives, highlighting that the government intends to provide active assistance to athletes and organizations involved in the Paralympic movement across the country. ## Role of Athletes' Committee The Athletes' Committee serves as the primary voice for competitors within the Paralympic structure, ensuring their needs are addressed at the executive level. By bridging the gap between individual athletes and governing bodies, the committee influences policy decisions, competition standards, and the overall development of inclusive sports programs in Asia. ## Strategic Regional Impact Won Yoo-min's election is expected to enhance the influence of Asian athletes within global sporting forums. By holding a position that connects regional and international committees, Won can better advocate for standardized training resources, improved accessibility at event venues, and more robust support systems for disabled athletes competing internationally. ## Paralympic Governance Structure The Asia Paralympic Committee operates as the regional governing body responsible for organizing the Asian Para Games and promoting Paralympic values. The Athletes' Committee is a crucial component of this governance, providing a platform for active and retired athletes to contribute their firsthand experiences to the strategic planning of future events. ## Commitment to Athlete Welfare The government's pledge to support athletes aligns with broader goals of fostering an inclusive sports environment. This involves financial backing, infrastructure development, and the promotion of specialized coaching programs. Such initiatives are designed to ensure that disabled athletes have the necessary tools to excel at both regional and global levels. ## Future Policy Directions With Won Yoo-min at the helm, stakeholders anticipate a focus on increasing athlete participation and improving the quality of competitive environments. The collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the APC will likely prioritize long-term sustainability for disabled sports programs, ensuring consistent funding and administrative support for athletes. ## Significance of Representation The election of a dedicated chair underscores the growing importance of athlete-led governance in the Paralympic movement. By ensuring that leadership positions are filled by those with direct experience, the committee aims to foster a more responsive and athlete-centric culture, ultimately driving progress in the inclusivity and professionalization of disabled sports. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.chosun.com/sports/sports_general/2026/11/07/GY4GIZJTMM3TQZLEGVRDKMBRGA/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._