Swimming Tigers, the only swimming club at Korea University, holds swimming sessions 3–4 times a week. The club also participates in competitions with other university clubs, going anywhere where there's water to swim.
What’s the appeal of swimming?
Seo-hyeon It's a sport where challenging yourself is crucial. Finding the stroke, posture, and breathing techniques that suit you best feels similar to how we approach life.
Ju-won I love that I can focus entirely on myself. The freedom and tranquility you can only feel in the water are wonderful.
Yun-ji Being good at swimming makes trips to the beach or water activities much more enjoyable when you travel.
What’s your most memorable moment while swimming with the Swimming Tigers?
Min-ji Last summer break, we all went boating in Gapyeong and lost our balance, falling into the water. But before the lifeguard could even come to rescue us, we swam to shore doing the breaststroke. I remember the onlookers being amazed, staring at us in disbelief. Long live the Swimming Tigers!
What makes you proud when it comes to the people in Swimming Tigers?
Min-ji When we compete, we carry with us the pride of Korea University and always return with glorious victories!
Ju-won There are so many incredible people. One member even asked, "Does swimming make you great?" Maybe it’s because it requires dedication.
Do you spend time together outside of regular training?
Yun-ji In our club room, we discuss whose funny picture we should hang on the wall next. We also do other sports like climbing, running, and snowboarding.
Min-ji After regular training, we sometimes cool off with a beer or ride Ttareungi (public bicycle) home along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Can you share some tips on becoming a better swimmer?
Seo-hyeon Follow swimming-related accounts on social media. Your feed will be full of swimming videos, and it’s a great way to do image training.
Min-ji Spend lots of time practicing on your own. If you focus on correcting your posture, your speed will naturally improve.
If you were to give yourself a nickname like "I am the ___ of the water," what would it be?
Seo-hyeon Vitamin. Swimmers often say, "Stress is water-soluble." Swimming really feels like it dissolves stress like a vitamin.
Min-ji I’m so sorry, but... Kim Yuna of the water! If Yuna is the queen of the ice rink, then I am the queen of the pool!
Ju-won Shark. I’m lurking underwater, so make sure you’re training properly! (laughs)
Yun-ji My nickname is Power Frog. I love breaststroke because it’s slow but smooth and powerful.