Iranian Track and Field Team Members Accused of Sexual Assault in South Korea
WANA (Jun 02) – Following reports in South Korean media, three members of Iran’s national track and field team — including two athletes and one coach — have been arrested on charges of sexually assaulting a South Korean woman in the city of Gumi. The incident allegedly took place on the sidelines of the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships.
According to South Korean police, the three men met the woman at a local bar and later took her to their hotel, where the alleged assault occurred. The young woman filed a complaint with police, leading to the suspects’ immediate arrest at the scene.
The Iranian Athletics Federation issued a statement acknowledging that three members of the national team engaged in “inappropriate behavior” during the championships. It stated that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken after a thorough investigation in accordance with the federation’s regulations.
Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, has instructed the Deputy for Elite and Professional Sports as well as the head of the Ministry’s Inspection and Security Office to seriously pursue the matter and provide a comprehensive report on all aspects of the incident.
Kim Beom-sik, the lawyer representing the South Korean woman, stated: “This is a serious case of rape and sexual assault that occurred during an international sports event. The perpetrators cannot evade legal responsibility simply because they are foreign nationals. We will investigate the full truth of this incident and ensure that the victim is protected throughout the entire criminal process so that justice is served.”
He emphasized that the case falls under the category of “Special Rape” as defined in Article 4, Paragraph 1 of the Special Act on Sexual Violence Crimes, which carries a minimum sentence of seven years in prison and can extend to life imprisonment.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions across Iranian social media. Many users expressed shock, sorrow, and anger, demanding accountability and swift action against the accused. Some have labeled the event a “national disgrace” and urged authorities to deal with the matter firmly.
On the other hand, some users questioned the credibility of the allegations and called for upholding the presumption of innocence until guilt is legally established.
The sexual assault allegations against members of Iran’s track and field team have received extensive media coverage and provoked varied public responses. Given the gravity of the charges and the ongoing legal proceedings in South Korea, the case is expected to be pursued with seriousness and transparency.
Members of Iran’s national Track and Field team, who had traveled to Gumi, South Korea to compete in the Asian Championships, returned to Tehran last night.
However, four team members—who had drawn controversy—remained in South Korea, where their situation is currently under review.
Members of Iran’s national Track and Field team returned to Tehran / WANA News Agency
