THREE-YEAR-OLD REPUTATIONS ON THE LINE IN SUNDAY CLASSIC TRIALS

SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 SUNDAY RACES ACROSS SEOUL & BUSAN

(Luke Humphreys) On Sunday from both Seoul and Busan we see the running of the first two Stakes races of the season for three-year-olds in the Sports Seoul Trophy (1400M-KOR-Listed) at 3:40PM Korean time followed by the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy (1400M-KOR-Listed) at 4:05PM.

Whilst these races are traditionally considered “classic trials”, for the first time this year, overseas-bred horses – who remain ineligible for the actual Classics – are permitted to participate. Accordingly, seven of the nine runners in the Seoul trial are foreign bred, one Australian and six American, however, five locally bred horses will get to put their Triple Crown/Tiara reputations on the line in the Busan trial.

The Seoul trial looks the most enthralling of the two as it sees three very impressive types race each other for the first time in Roshe, My Empire and Di Ne.

ROSHE is unbeaten from three starts with a two and a half-length victory on debut followed by a soft 10 length victory and then a victory by one- and three-quarter lengths last start but it could have been a lot more.

MY EMPIRE was a late closing third to Geudaemaniddamyeon in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy prior to winning his next two starts at class three level by six and five lengths respectively.

DI NE has been most impressive since a sixth in the Listed Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy with victories by 11, 10 and eight lengths.

GAMSAUI HIM was also impressive last start winning by seven lengths.

1. ROSHE – The only unbeaten horse in the line-up following three victories by two and a half lengths, 10 lengths and a very soft one- and three-quarter lengths. This is clearly his toughest test to date but there is no reason why he won’t be up to it.

2. FREE THE ONE – Last start winner over the course and distance on January 24 by a length and a half when racing on pace throughout. This is clearly the hardest race he has run in, but he does come from the stables of Moon Byeong-ki.

3. MY EMPIRE – The second highest rated three-year-old in the country and he has been ultra impressive of late with two recent class three victories by six and five lengths, the latter after making a mess of the start. He made up a lot of ground in his only black type run to date when third in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy to Geudaemaniddamyeon and Wonpyeong Sket. There are big wraps on him, and it will be interesting to see how he performs.

4. CAROLCHAT – Has been behind My Empire in three of his past four with a second four runs back followed by a late closing fifth in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy before finishing behind My Empire again. He struck a winnable class four last time and made most of that to lead for most of the contest and score by four lengths. He has some ground to make up on some of these but at least got a confidence boost last time.

5. BEST PITCH – The first of the two Korean bred runners who is unbeaten bar one. Last time was his biggest win yet when scoring by four lengths at class four level over 1200 metres. Could be the forgotten horse.

6. SAMJOGO – Finished midfield on debut but came out and won impressively from the front at attempt two when scoring by six lengths. Clearly his hardest task today but he is obviously improving.

7. GAMSAUI HIM – It took him a few runs to break through, but he was impressive when doing so last start when scoring by seven lengths from the front over 1700 metres. He obviously stays so it will be interesting to see how he goes back in trip by 300 metres as he was behind My Empire and Carolchat in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy last November.

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Classic Trials Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 1)

March kicks off with Listed races for three-year-olds at both Seoul and Busan. In total there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Maiden fillies. (5) FLYING SMART was last throughout in her first trial on December 18 when beaten 39 ¾ lengths but atoned for that with a victory on January 15 coming from midfield to score by three lengths. On that most recent trial, this daughter of Old Fashioned looks to have a good chance of winning on debut for Kazuya Asano and Tony Castanheira. (11) ECLIPSE ELLY was ahead of five of her rivals when second beaten 11 lengths on debut back on January 24 and can go close again. (2) WALLSTREET was a long last back on debut however improved at attempt two to run third and can be prominent again for Johan Victoire and Moon Byeong-ki. (6) LAVITA was also a long last on debut, beaten 21 lengths, before improving to finish third second time around but in her case, she only improved one length on her debut as she was beaten 20 lengths. (1) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA and (8) CHEONGGANG BOM rate next.

Selections(5) Flying Smart (11) Eclipse Elly (2) Wallstreet (6) Lavita
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) RAON THE TONY has been the most consistent of these to date with a trial third followed by two third places at his two race starts racing on pace throughout in each of the three performances. In what is not a strong maiden he can go a few places better. (6) WINNER’S BLUE was third on debut when attempting to lead throughout however couldn’t lead last time and subsequently dropped out after failing to handle the kickback so if she can lead she can go close. (3) DANAEUN RUBY was second in her trial but in three races to date she has bombed out. She was ridden forward in the first two of those however was ridden from the rear at attempt three, but those changes of tactics achieved nothing. This isn’t a strong race so she hasn’t got that many more chances. (11) NIGHT CAPTAIN has been around the mark and rates over (8) AESUNI and (9) PARKA SHINE.

Selections(10) Raon The Tony, (6) Winner’s Blue (3) Danaeun Ruby (11) Night Captain
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 6, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

(4) TRIBAL WAR won a trial and then ran 2nd on debut over this distance on January 25th, leading for most of the way and beating four of today’s rivals. He won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this and he will start a short-price favourite. Having run 5th on debut, (7) GYEONGBOK STREGA was an improved 3rd in that January 25th race, coming from off the pace and finishing two-and-a-half lengths behind Tribal War. Third-up he can be nice and fit and continue to make progress. (6) ONE LAST MARGARITA was a trial winner and then ran 4th on debut in the January 25th race. He should have come on for the run and can get closer. Debut-maker (10) SAESIDAE WON won a trial and can be considered. (3) BARAM DAERO was slow away on debut but ran on well for 5th and is a place chance.

Selections(4) Tribal War (7) Gyeongbok Strega (6) One Last Margarita (10) Saesidae Won
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) POMADE has made steady progress across five starts so far, with her latest her best when 2nd over this distance on January 24th. She led for most of the way that day, but she has a smart finish on her too so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can go one better. The danger is on her inside. (10) PARAIBA has finished between 3rd and 5th in all her four starts so far, settling midfield and running on each time. The slight step up in trip can suit and Maia gets back on. (1) RISING WIND was a much-improved 3rd at start three on January 25th and is another who can benefit from the increased distance today. (4) EUNHA KALAS and (8) WONDERFUL REASON others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Pomade (10) Paraiba (1) Rising Wind (4) Eunha Kalas
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) VELOCI QUEEN was 4th on debut and then 2nd at start number two at this distance on January 23rd when she settled midfield and finished well, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. Third-up she can be peaking, and she can win. (3) SUNRISE will probably be the betting favourite. She has a 2nd and a4th in two starts at 1200M and 1300M and from a great draw, she can be on pace and can potentially go all the way. The form falls off significantly after those two. (2) DEEP SPRINT was 3rd on debut behind Veloci Queen on January 23rd and with some natural improvement can be a place chance. (9) SHINING CLUTCH and (1) DOCTOR STING may improve.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 28)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Underutilized public land (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with all but two racing for the first time. (11) GEUMBIT YEONGUNG went through three trials and in the final one of them, on January 29th, he came home 1st, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He should be nice and fit for this and can be a chance. (10) GREEN JACKET was an on-pace winner of his trial, stopping the clock in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll be in the mix. (4) EVER GLORY also showed at the front in her trial, crossing the line in 2nd place. Nicely drawn to be on pace, she can be in this a long way. (2) TTEUTDAERO and (5) TRIGONUS are others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(11) Geumbit Yeongung (10) Green Jacket (4) Ever Glory (2) Tteutdaero
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported three-year-old maidens. After winning a trial, (4) HERO CHEETAH was a fair 4th on debut over this distance on February 14th, showing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run, and he won’t need to improve much to win here. (2) WHIZ STAR beat a couple of these on his way to 6th of ten on debut over this distance on January 10th. Drawing nicely, he can have benefitted for the experience and can be closer this time. After a good trial, (6) BREEDO CHAMPION was underwhelming on debut. He has since been back to trial again and can be given another chance here. (1) K N BIGBANG and (7) TAEKWON V are others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Hero Cheetah (2) Whiz Star (6) Breedo Champion (1) K N Bigbang
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WISHMASTER has shown progress across three starts so far, with his latest his best when 2nd at 1200M on January 31st when on pace throughout. He’ll be on the speed again here and is favoured to go one better. (5) ROAD TO PERFECT has finished 4th on both starts so far, the latest behind Wishmaster in that January 31st race. The slight step up in trip can suit and Maia climbs on for the first time. (3) SEMYEONG PEAK has a 4th and a 5th from her latest two and in this company, she should be aiming to go better. (2) EODIGADO and (7) BREEDO CALEY others who can improve.

Selections(8) Wishmaster (5) Road To Perfect (3) Semyeong Peak (2) Eodigado
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Since returning from almost six months out, (5) KIA ORA has registered a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts back, both at 1400M. She steps up to this distance for the first time, but it can suit and third-up she can be peaking fitness-wise. (7) FIGHTER has been figuring things out over three starts so far with his latest two both finishing with 4th place, most recently over this distance on January 10th when settling midfield and running on. That experience can stand him in good stead, and he can be a danger late on. (3) BROWN SUGAR Is yet to finish any better than 5th but she has done that in both her latest two and the step up to two turns can see her better that here. (1) CHEONJI JACKAL and (2) JISAN FRIEND perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(5) Kia Ora (7) Fighter (3) Brown Sugar (1) Cheonji Jackal
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fascinating race. A winner on debut before running 3rd in Listed juvenile company, (3) UNICA has since been a beaten favourite on three occasions, most recently in filly only company at 1300M on February 7th. She gets a weight drop here, she draws well, and we’ll stay loyal. (9) ECLIPSE BOSS was 3rd on debut before running out and emphatic winner at start number two over this distance on January 17th when leading all the way. He comes up in class but is down 2kg in weight and the manner of that victory means it will be no surprise were he to repeat. (2) APATEU was a beaten favourite when 3rd at this class and distance on January 17th when on pace throughout. She’ll be on the speed here as well and is a chance again. (7) B.K. DEVIL and (6) TIGER K among plenty of other chances.

Selections(3) Unica (9) Eclipse Boss (2) Apateu (7) B.K. Devil
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. After running 2nd on debut, (5) GEUMJEOKSAN similarly got her maiden win from the front at start two in November. She was a beaten odds-on favourite when 3rd on her first try at this class at 1400M on December 28th but coming in fresh here, she is well worth another chance. (6) STUNNING DOLPHIN led from gate-to-wire to score at start number two on January 24th. She is up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be a problem, and she can be competitive again today. (2) GEOLJAK TIARA struggled from a wide draw on her first try at this class over 1400M on January 18th. She is one for one at today’s trip and from a much better gate, gets another chance. (4) BEST CHEONHA and (11) COMPLETE TOUCH among the other chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 27)

Racing is back and it’s a four-day weekend with Seoul and Jeju holding holiday cards on Monday. The action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9-races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(7) CAMPIO is a Kim Hye-sun prepared debutante by Mischieviously that led throughout to win his trial impressively by one- and three-quarter lengths on December 20 in a time of 1:01.9 and that looks more than good enough to make a winning debut. (10) DELTA FORCE was beaten miles in his first trial on July 5 but after five months off trialled again on December 13 and won comfortably by five lengths. He was a beaten 1.8 favourite on his race debut on January 23 but wasn’t disgraced finishing third beaten a length when racing on the pace throughout. (8) BACK TO THE DREAM is a Gemologist debutante for Lim Keum-man that has had the one trial for a half-length second on January 29. (5) NICE MYEONGGA has been around the mark to date in his trials and solitary race and is next best over (1) OASIS KINGDOM and (4) SEOGWI GREAT.

Selections(7) Campio, (10) Delta Force, (8) Back To The Dream, (5) Nice Myeongga
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) ROAD TO NUMBER ONE is a Lee Jung-pyo trained filly by the American Royal Ascot winner Uncaptured that has had the one trial for an impressive front-running success on January 22 by three lengths so she must be given the utmost of respect on debut. (4) FAST WIND has proven a bit of a handful to date racing greenly and resenting kickback. He was never in the hunt after a poor beginning last start, but he was in the market against a couple of nice types and did manage second when making his debut prior. (5) QUEEN’S TODAY has had the three starts, and they have all occurred over this trip, but she perhaps would appreciate a tad further. She can however be given a place chance going on the way she has got to the finish at her last two. (9) POWERFUL THUNDER has been around the mark to date whilst (3) BREEDO SHOOTER is an interesting runner and rates over (2) SWEET MAN.

Selections(10) Road To Number One, (4) Fast Wind, (5) Queen’s Today, (9) Powerful Thunder
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start3, 10, 11, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) WIN NOW is the only debutante in the field but this Moon Hyeon-cheol prepared son of Final Boss can go close. He ran past a few late when fourth beaten 18 ¾ lengths in his first trial on January 8 prior to a good victory on January 29 when coming from near last to prevail by a half-length. (11) DUBAI SEONMUL came from well back after a slow start to be a three length second on debut back in December prior to a third beaten 12 lengths on January 30 behind Bunker Buster, who he did run past back on debut. After drawing against the inside running rail in both runs to date, he draws the widest bar one for this assignment but might find this to be a tad easier than his first two runs. (9) LIKE DRAGON had been knocking on the door prior to last start when failing as a 1.8 favourite in the form line race for this. He failed to handle the kickback on that occasion but draws wider here. (1) TOP OF THE RANK beat four of his rivals last start and they included (8) GREAT POWER who rates next over (10) YONGBI JJANG.

Selections(6) Win Now, (11) Dubai Seonmul, (9) Like Dragon, (1) Top Of The Rank
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(12) QUEEN MAKER didn’t do much at the trials so was sent off at 72.4 for her debut but was a good second beaten by less than a length. She was a three length second to Bunker Buster, who races later in the card, last start and despite drawing wide is a chance of going one better. (9) FAPPI BABE is yet to do much wrong with two third places prior to a two-length victory from the front on January 16. (4) SWORN QUEEN overcame a bad start to score last start. (3) MOMENTUM won her maiden on Boxing Day by a whopping 16 lengths prior to a fifth last start. (2) BREEDO ARENA broke through last time and is improving and THIS WAY (8) has won at this level in the past. (1) BORYEONG ONE ROAD and (6) LAMPYOJEONGGEENIE must be considered too in a tough race.

Selections(12) Queen Maker, (9) Fappi Babe, (4) Sworn Queen, (3) Momentum
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(9) BUNKER BUSTER failed on debut as a 1.2 favourite but duly made up for that at attempt two when winning his maiden over 1300 metres on January 30 by a soft three lengths. He looks to have progression and can win again. (2) OASIS YOUNG is another who won his maiden last start over 1300 metres with his occurring on January 25 by four lengths. He hasn’t done much wrong in three runs and is another who can go well up one level in grade. (6) FAST MAN was just behind the placegetters in some feature juvenile races last season before winning his maiden by 13 lengths in December before failing badly as a 1.3 favourite in his first run at this level and over this trip. He was a beaten favourite again last time, however, ran much better. He returns to the 1400 metres, and it will be interesting to see how he performs with Franco da Silva riding for the first time. (5) SEONGSIL DREAM was an impressive winner of his maiden last time and rates over (11) DAEGIL HERO and (10) SHINING ONE (10).

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Korea Racing Report: February 13-15 – Speed Young Sprints To Segye Success

SPEED YOUNG (Menifee) showed why he was recently crowned Korean Horse of the Year for 2025 when overcoming many obstacles to become the first Busan prepared horse to take out the Segye Ilbo Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed), the first black type race of 2026. at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday.

On a day where six of the ten races were won by leaders, Speed Young came from the second half of the field to storm down the outside to deny a game YEONGGWANGUI WORLD, who led all bar the last fifty metres.

Speed Young, who had never won over 1200M prior, was outpaced and under pressure in the early stages but, on a front running dominated track, proved to be by far the best under a brilliant first ride on the horse for Jo In-kwon.

ZIGGURAT was a further five-lengths away in 3rd, also coming from well back, ahead of HAKSAN SPEED in 4th.

Korea Sprint 3rd SUPER FINISH and BEST RACE, who drew either side of the stalls, were the next pair home followed by last year’s winner CROWN HAMSEONG.

The major disappointment was the 3.5 favourite MUNHAK BOY who came into the race on a streak of six victories but was effectively beaten from the start, proving unable to get onto the early speed and ultimately, ended eight and three quarters lengths in 10th.

“(Speed Young) hadn’t raced over the distance for a year so there was always that concern,” winning jockey Jo In-kwon told KRBC. “But as soon as I saw Munhak Boy hadn’t managed to get on to the speed, I was more at ease and thought we could win. If Munhak Boy had been in front of me, I would have been anxious, but from then on I just left it to Speed Young.”

Speed Young doesn’t currently hold an entry to the first leg of the Sprint Series next month and trainer Bang Dong-suk was non-committal about where his charge would next run: “The first priority is the health of the horse, but we will consider going back to the Stayer Series. For now, I am happy to start 2026 with a win.”

Earlier, THE CLASSIC (Concord Point) was an impressive eased down twelve-length winner of the opening race. He is a “full” brother to the 2023 KRA Cup Mile (2000 Guineas) winner Betelgeuse and looks to have similar ability based on his debut. Betelgeuse didn’t run again after that Cup Mile win but does stand at Stud and just this month his first foals have been reported to be on the ground.

GENERAL WIND (Yeonseung Daero) justified 2.9 favouritism to impressively lead throughout in race 4 under Kim Yong-geun (1400M Class 5) scoring by four-lengths over 3.3 second pick VALID YOUNG who lost no admirers in second.

The American bred MOVING VOLCANO (Stay Thirsty) was a good one-length winner from the top in race 8 (1200M Class 4). The three-year-old colt was the last of the two winners on the program for both Kim Yong-geun and Hong Dae You in a race which saw fancies MUNHAK DAESE and RAON SPILETTA never land a blow.

CIRCLE A (Higher Power) was yet another front running winner on the program scoring in race 9 (1700M Class 4) by four-lengths and in doing so brought up a riding double for Turkish jockey Furkan Yuksel who earlier scored in race 2 with X-TEN (Mischievously). CC Wong was also among the winners on CHRYSOL STONE (Chrysolite).

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Segye Ilbo Trophy: Preview & Form Comments

It’s been more than two months since the Grand Prix Stakes rounded off the 2025 Korean black type calendar, but big races are finally back as the 2026 season gets underway in earnest at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday with the Segye Ilbo Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed).   

SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN ON SUNDAY

Crown Hamseong bids to defend the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Remarkably a horse who ran in that Grand Prix which, at 2300M, is Korea’s longest race, is back to sprinting in the Segye Ilbo. And it’s none other than reigning Horse of the Year SPEED YOUNG. He may have won the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) and then been 3rd in the Grand Prix but he started last year with 3rd place in this very same race. Known as the “Swiss Army Knife horse”, such is his versatility that he may well be sent off as favourite.

To win though, Speed Young will have to get past last year’s winner, CROWN HAMSEONG. The filly is first-up after almost three months off and has a lot of early speed. If CC Wong can get her into the lead, she may well go all the way. Kookje Shinmun (1400M KOR-G3) winner MUNHAK BOY has won his latest six and will be on pace too with strong claims.

SUPER FINISH was the best locally placed finisher in the Korea Sprint (1200 G3) last September and is not to be discounted while BEST RACE is an up and comer who has won his latest four and tests elite waters for the first time. Impressive last start winner YEONGGWANGUI WORLD rounds out those likely to be at the top of the market.

While the race is restricted to Korean-bred runners, there is plenty of ability – not to mention speed – among the fifteen-strong field:

1. SUPER FINISH – 3rd to Self Improvement and Chikappa in last year’s International Korea Sprint, he was most recently 3rd to Yeonggwangui World in a very quick class 1 over this trip in December. If he gets to the lead, he is a chance.

2. SPEED YOUNG – The reigning Horse of the Year was 3rd in this race a year ago before spending the rest of 2025 in the very best distance races, running 4th in the Korea Cup, winning the President’s Cup and then 3rd in the Grand Prix. He has never won at 1200M, but he is competent over any distance and will probably start as favourite.
3. MUNHAK BOY – Enters having won his last six, most recently the G3 Kookje Shinmun over 1400M at Busan. That distance and a mile would appear to be his go and if the pace is on, this may prove too sharp, but there is no doubting his quality and he is a big chance.

4. YEONGGWANGUI WORLD – 6th in this race last year but struggled in the opening leg of the Sprint Series. Ended 2025 in strong fashion with a blistering class 1 win at this distance in a Korea Sprint time. Races on pace and if he brings that form, he can win.

5. HAKSAN SPEED – Five-time winner at this distance although only up to class 2 level. Races on pace and while he will need to go much quicker here, he still has plenty more scope for development.

6. CROWN HAMSEONG – Last year’s winner, she followed up with 2nd places in two Queens’ Tour legs and behind Vincero Cavallo in the G2 SROA at this distance. Last raced 4th at class 1 level over a mile in November and trialed well last month. Another who likes to lead and a repeat isn’t impossible if she does.

7. TOUGH MAN – The veteran has been well back in his latest two, a Trophy race on international weekend, and then the KRA Sprint at Seoul on Grand Prix day. Big outsider.

8. MIRACLE HANGANG – 5th in the KRA Sprint at Seoul on Grand Prix day, and 4th behind Haksan Speed in his latest on January 17th. Solid class 2 horse but likely overmatched here.

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Segye Ilbo Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 15)

The final day’s racing before the Lunar New Year’s holiday sees the first Stakes race of 2026 with the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy at Seoul. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Horse Of The Year Speed Young goes in the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Competitive maiden opener with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on a newcomer in the shape of (2) THE CLASSIC. He’s a “full” brother to KRA Cup Mile winner Betelgeuse and went through two trials, just doing enough in the first of them before winning the second with an on pace showing. He should be nice and fit and can win on debut. (1) GANGHAN GAMMA ran a fair 5th on debut on January 17th, settling back and running on. She should have come on for that, and the additional half furlong can suit. (6) NOBLE MATCH has raced twice, improving to 3rd at start number two. She’ll be on pace and can be in the finish. (5) PASA ACE and debut maker (9) SKYLOR TAEHA are others in the mix.

Selections(2) The Classic (1) Ganghan Gamma (6) Noble Match (5) Pasa Ace
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) YEONGWONHAN STAR has shown steady improvement across her four starts to date, culminating in 2nd place at 1200M on December 13th. She comes in fresh following nine weeks off, in this company she can be on the speed, and she rates as a big chance. (7) BLAZING ENGINE was slow away and never a factor at start two in January but if we go on his 2nd place on debut over 1200M at the end of December, he warrants another chance here. (11) X-TEN was a close 4th over this distance on January 25th and while she has the challenge of the widest gate here, she has finished off her races well and can be threatening late. (5) CHEONJI JACKAL and (9) BEST URBANE other place chances.

Selections(8) Yeongwonhan Star (7) Blazing Engine (11) X-Ten (5) Cheonji Jackal
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here and while there is only one debut-maker, she goes on top. (11) RUSH WILD led every step of the way to comfortably win her trial in a decent time, working through the line well. If she brings that form to the races, the Hansen filly has every chance first up. (7) VICTORIA CHUKJE has a 2nd and a 5th from two starts so far, beating several of today’s rivals in the process, and she looks like the best of the experienced ones. (2) TAEYANGUIYEOLJEONG was 4th behind Victoria Chukje on the latter’s debut but has a runner-up finish to her name too at this distance and that’s enough to have her in the mix as well. (4) NORTHERN QUEEN and (3) DUBAI CANDY others in the frame.

Selections(11) Rush Wild (7) Victoria Chukje (2) Taeyanguiyeoljeong (4) Northern Queen
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Since returning from five months out, (3) PNS GONGJA has finished 3rd twice, first at 1200M in December and then at 1400M on January 10th when he led for most of the way and beat a couple of today’s rivals. Third-up he can be peaking, Maia climbs on for the first time, and he can win (10) MADE ran twice last summer for a 4th and a 3rd and while he hasn’t raced since, he looked well in a January trial and can put in a good effort first-up. (6) MIGHTY CRIS was a much-improved 3rd over 1300M on January 18th, doing his best work late, and the slight increase in distance can suit. (9) PRIMERO and (4) HWANGGEUM MASK are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) PNS Gongja (10) Made (6) Mighty Cris (9) Primero
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) FLASH TO ME comes in having beaten three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over 1400M on January 16rg, settling fairly before being ridden up to be handy. The mile can suit, Franco rides for the first time, and he will be a short price to win. (8) MAGIC MIRROR was the second longest shot on the board last time out but defied that to run 3rd on his first try at 1400M. The further extended trip today can be in his favour and he can be in the finish again. (6) MUJEOK BIHAENG did beat Flash To Me when the pair ran 4th and 5th back in early December and she can offer some each-way interest. (3) TAEPYEONG FLEX and (9) BREEDO CAPTAIN are the other main chances.

Selections(10) Flash To Me (8) Magic Mirror (6) Mujeok Bihaeng (3) Taepyeong Flex
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) VALID YOUNG was a winner on debut over 1200M before running 4th on his first try at this class and distance on January 10th, settling midfield from a wide draw and running on. He can run on again here and he can win. The danger is on his immediate inside. (10) GENERAL WIND overcame the widest gate to win on debut over 1000M and then ran a very close 2nd at 1200M on December 21st at this level. He comes up to 1400M for the first time but if he can get a touch of luck at the start to help him lead, he has every chance. (2) TAEGISAN KING was 2nd at this class and distance on January 17th, coming from off the pace, and he can be in the mix again. (7) ROAD TO STAR and veteran (1) SSANG OK RU other minor money chances.

Selections(11) Valid Young (10) General Wind (2) Taegisan King (7) Road To Star
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 14)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) RAON THE CLARA went back to trial after an inauspicious debut in November. She came through the heat well and then finished a solid 3rd on her return over this distance on January 4th. She won’t need to improve much on that to win this. There are four first timers. (8) LEGEND SHA’CARRI won her trial in decent fashion, settling midfield and running on. 1200M can suit first up and if she brings that form to the races, she will be close. (9) ONNURI BIT was an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on January 17th. She can be on pace here and in this a long way. (10) LEGEND MATCH and (5) PORTRAY MATCH others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(6) Raon The Clara (8) Legend Sha’Carri (9) Onnuri Bit (10) Legend Match
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Three-year-old imported maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) SOUTH CARNIVAL fairly bolted up in his trial, settling handy before pulling well clear late on. If he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (9) WHIZ PERFECT ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on December 21st racing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run and shapes as a chance here. (6) HERO CHEETAH is another debut making trial winner. He came from well back to score in his heat and can put in a bold effort first up. (4) BARAMUI GIEOK has raced twice already, improving to 3rd in the second of them and he can have a fitness edge here. (2) GLOBAL KINGDOM was ordinary on debut but previously trialed well and can be given another chance.

Selections(5) South Carnival (9) Whiz Perfect (6) Hero Cheetah (4) Baramui Gieok
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) GOLDEN DIVA has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at 1200M on January 3rd when coming from off the pace. She has run well from a forward position too, and from a good draw, today should be her day. (7) NUMBER ONE SOCKS was a much-improved 2nd last time out at 1200M, coming from off the pace. The same apprentice stays on, and they can go close again. (6) LOVERMAN has mixed his results so far, but he has two 3rd place finishes to his name, and he can aim to at least match that here. (10) CHEONJI LADY and (1) YONGBIGYO others in the frame.

Selections(2) Golden Diva (7) Number One Socks (6) Loverman (10) Cheonji Lady
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 7th on debut, (4) JEJU PRINCESS was 2nd on debut at this distance on January 18th, leading for much of the way. CC stays on and the pair can lead again and this time go all the way. (5) POWER BEST was 4th in that January 18th race when sent off as favourite. That was based on his 2nd place at the end of December at this distance and from a good gate, he too can be on pace, and he shapes as the main danger. (10) POWERFUL PRADO comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes and the slight step up in trip today can suit. (3) K SIMON and (9) CERAD came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at this distance on January 17th and they too can be in the frame here.

Selections(4) Jeju Princess (5) Power Best (10) Powerful Prado (3) K Simon
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. A step up to two turns aside (10) GYEOUL JANGMI has been consistently around the money and was 3rd at this class and distance three starts back She has a good finish on her so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can make her breakthrough here. (7) CUPID K enters off a class and distance 4th last time out on January 18th. Her sole win came at this trip, and she shapes as a danger here. The rest of them need an uptick in form. (1) BEOLGYOWISU us netter than her latest effort suggests and from the inside gate can be closer to the pace today and is a place chance. (9) STUNNING STEP and (5) SWEET SONG perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(10) Gyeoul Jangmi (7) Cupid K (1) Beolgyowisu (9) Stunning Step
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 13)

The last weekend before the brief Lunar New Year break kicks off at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:15 to 17L55. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) DOCTOR CHAMP returned from over three months out to run a close 2nd over this distance on January 30th, racing on pace. He has the challenge of a wide draw here but should strip fitter for that run and has solid claims. (1) MAGIC OF ART enters off an improved 3rd at start three over 1200M on January 23rd when she tracked the leaders and ran on well. She draws well to do similar today and this time, he can win. (5) THE POINT was similarly an improved 2nd at start four on December 28th when on pace throughout. He was found to have bled after that, but he came through his mandatory trial in fine fashion at the end of January and is a chance here. (12) CHOEGANG HAPPY and (10) HUIMANG LOGI others in the frame.

Selections(11) Doctor Champ (1) Magic Of Art (5) The Point (12) Choegang Happy
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SUCCESS DAY has a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, beating a couple of today’s rivals last time out on January 16th when on pace throughout. He can be on pace here and in this a long way again. (11) KISS THE RAIN has made steady progress across four starts so far with his latest his best when 2nd on his first try at 1400M on November 16th when leading for much of the way. He has to contend with the widest gate, but he won’t need to improve much to win this.  (2) DIA X has been consistent in recent efforts, and this is the kind of race he can go close in. (4) FANTASTIC BOSS and (3) OASIS RUBY are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Success Day (11) Kiss The Rain (2) Dia X (4) Fantastic Boss
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here.  (2) DOLPHIN KICK is yet to win in ten, but she has nine top five finishes including her latest when a close 2nd at this class and distance on January 23rd when racing handy throughout. She draws well here to be on or close to the pace and today can be her day. (9) FLEX TAP has a 4th and a 3rd from her latest two at 1200M and 1300M and she can continue her positive run of form here, probably from on the pace in this company. (12) GRAND TREE knocked up very quickly last time out in a slow race at this class and distance at the end of December but was later found slightly lame. He’s been back in work since January 24th and can be given another chance here. (7) JOY OF QUEEN along with (11) TWO TWO FLYING are other place chances.

Selections(2) Dolphin Kick (9) Flex Tap (12) Grand Tree (7) Joy Of Queen
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

The second division of the fillies and mares at class 5 level. (8) YEOUN was an all the way winner on debut in a filly maiden over 1200M on January 9th. She comes up in class but is down in weight and has every chance of measuring up in this company. (11) ARI DRAGON was a winner on debut last summer and followed it up with a 2nd place at this class over 1400M before being out for the next almost six-months. She returned with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on January 11th and she can strip fitter today and will probably start as favourite. (3) STAY COOL was a maiden winner over 1400M two starts back and then ran a fair 5th on her first try at this class on January 18th and can get closer today. (2) BLACK TREE and (7) WONDER MOCCASIN others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Yeoun (11) Ari Dragon (3) Stay Cool (2) Black Tree
Next Best7, 12
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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KOREA RACING REPORT: FEBRUARY 6-8

SEOUL – February 9, 2026 – Luke Humphreys & Alastair Middleton

The weekend’s feature race saw potentially big Sprint Series implications while a challenger approaches on the Triple Crown trail and a young filly made an impressive return.

The very final race of the weekend was the only Class 1, and it was billed as a showdown between MAGIC POTION and WONPYEONG STORM, both with aspirations of getting a place in the gate for the Busan Ilbo Sprint, the first leg of the Sprint Series next month.

When that 1200M feature finally took place on a bitterly cold Sunday in the capital city the face off never happened as Wonpyeong Storm missed the kick and Magic Potion hovered but ultimately offered little as WOW WOW (Cowboy Cal) led from gate-to-wire to score by a length from SPEED ONE at odds of 9.1 locally. The Song Jae-chul ridden seven-year-old recorded his seventh career win on his thirty-second start. Also in the race, the 2022 Korea Sprint winner EOMA EOMA, like Wow Wow also sporting the Nasca colours, but like Wonpyeong Storm the now nine-year-old was never a factor.

In earlier races, ACE K (Cupid) tackled the 1800M for the first time at class 3 level having gone no further than1400M before, but the extra quarter mile proved no problem as he raced on the pace throughout and won by an extending 13 lengths over 2.6 favourite Tanseongui Banseok. His co-favourite FLYING CRUISER was the big disappointment, finishing a long last.

GOLD CATCHER (Cowboy Cal) bounced back to winning ways when winning race 8 (1400M Class 4) for Johan Victoire and Luigi Riccardi. The four-year-old filly had never missed the top four placings prior to her previous start and proved way too good with a front-running three-length victory. The previously unbeaten SAMJEONG SPIDER started a 1.4 favourite but was a never nearer 5th after not the best of beginnings.

Also on form was PERFECT DANAEUN (Freedom Child) with a six-length score in race 7 (1600M Class 4). He had taken out four in a row before coming up against Di Ne last month but under Ruan Maia, this time he was untroubled by his rivals to take his overall record to five wins from twelve starts.

MAEUM HANA (Gaon Champ) made it two victories in a row with a front-running victory for jockey CC Wong and trainer Choi Yong-geon in race 5. The three-year-old colt recorded a time of 1:20.1 in the class 5 and looks progressive going on his five-length victory.

AMOS CHEONHA (To Honor And Serve) completed a double for that jockey-trainer combination, and was the first of two winners for owner Hong Ae Ran, when coming from well back to score in the following 1800M Class 5. He missed the break for the second consecutive start and whilst it did his chances no good it didn’t make a difference as he pulled victory from out of the fire by an extending length and a half.

RAON THE PLUMA (Indie Band), GRACE DAY (Race Day) and JAZZ PURPLE (Hansen) could be horses to follow going forward on their respective victories in the opening three races on the card which were all Class 6 contests.

THERE WAS A SEVEN-RACE CARD AT BUSAN ON SUNDAY AND CLEARLY WINNER (Hansen) resumed from five months away from the races with a stress fracture to win impressively in race 6 (1400M Class 4). 

The Park Jae-i ridden Kim Hye-sun prepared three-year-old filly raced on the pace throughout before roaring away in the straight to record a facile five-length success. 

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