Seoul

Korea Racing Report: March 6th – March 8th

IT WAS A LONG WAIT FOR THE FEATURE AT SEOUL RACECOURSE ON SUNDAY A class 1 affair over the 1200M for those who didn’t make the privilege of going to the G3 at Busan to get beaten by Vincero Cavallo, was the last on the card, but it didn’t disappoint as MAGIC POTION (Competitive Edge), the winner of last November’s KRA Sprint at Seoul, beat favourite Best Race by a length and a half in a fast time. 

The US-bred five-year-old, who was ridden by Lee Yong-ho, moved on to eight wins from fourteen starts and could be under consideration for a start in the next leg of the Sprint Series on April 12th. 

STUNNING MONEY (Gyeongbudaero) completed a riding treble on the program for Panamanian jockey Luiz Quiroz when winning the preceding ninth race (1800M Class 3) by two lengths.

It was a third victory over the Seoul 1800M for Stunning Money who accounted for Dragon Gate and Ultra Dragon whilst the three favourites in Tanseongui Banseok, BS Storm and Pasa Spurt were the next trio home.

The other victories on the program for Quiroz were ONEMO TIME (Peace Rules) who was the most impressive winner of the three maiden contests at the start of the card when justifying 2.3 favoritism by nine-lengths from the front, and in race 7 with a pick-up ride on STAY BIG (Stay Thirsty) who was the rank outsider at 60/1.

SHINING ROAD (Midshipman) was considered the danger to the 1.4 popular pick Pas de Cheval in race 8 (1700M Class 4) and he duly got first run on the favourite and held him off by a half-length. Pas de Cheval, who had won his previous two starts very softly, didn’t respond when first asked for the effort but eventually picked up in the straight; however, the line came up too quickly for his backers.

RAON FLORENCE (Musket Man) continued his consistent run of form when impressively winning by six lengths at even money under apprentice Woo In-cheol in race 6 (1200M Class 4).

GWANAKSAN SKY (Concord Point) followed up his debut victory with a four-length score in race 4 (1400M Class 5) and looks like potentially a nice type going forward.

GRACE DAY (Race Day) followed up her front-running nine-length maiden victory with another front-running win, this time only by a half-length. It is likely it would have been by a bit further however if she wasn’t so green in the home straight as she hung out with 200 metres to travel before then ducking back in towards the running rail in the final 50 metres. Her victory completed a riding double for Jeong Jeong-hee who rode the opening winner FLASH JUDE (Flashback).

VINCERO CAVALLO WAS THE STAR DOWN AT BUSAN but there was plenty on the undercard too.

UNJU CHALLENGE (Revolutionary) came home two and a half lengths clear in the following 1800M Class 4. He dipped coming out of the gates but balanced up, found the lead and proved too good for Lime Tree whilst the 2.4 favourite Amazing One was a further five lengths away only managing third and never looking like getting near his two co-favourites. Son Gyeong-min was the winning rider and that apprentice completed a double after success in race 3 on board NICE GIRL (Afleet Express).

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 7)

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

Roshe won last week’s Listed Sports Seoul Trophy at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

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

Maidens with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (7) FLYING HONOR took a few trials to get to the races but ran a good 4th on debut over this distance on January 17th, settling midfield and running on. He should have learned plenty from that and can win today. Among the debut-makers, (3) NAOL AURORA took two trials to qualify and improved significantly in the second of them, showing on pace. From a good draw if she can bring that form to the races, she will be close. (10) GOLDEN MATCH was also on pace in debut and while he weakened late for a midfield finish, he can have come on for the run. (5) METAL INVADER and (1) AREUMDAUN BIT can also improve from their respective debuts.

Selections(7) Flying Honor (3) Naol Aurora (10) Golden Match (5) Metal Invader
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

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

(8) IKKEULIM raced twice without distinction last summer before going lame. He returned to action, gelded, on January 24th and ran a solid 2nd place over 1200M. He should have come on for that run, and he can go one better here. After winning a trial, (5) RAPID THUNDER was a smart 2nd on debut in December when he led for much of the way over 1200M. He’s had eleven weeks out since but can build on that here. (1) TWOTWO MAGIC came from a long way back to run 5th on debut over 1200M on January 31st. He should have come on for the run and the slight step up in trip can suit. (6) GOD SPEED and (2) STUNNING CALIBER others who can improve.  

Selections(8) Ikkeulim (5) Rapid Thunder (1) Twotwo Magic (6) God Speed
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

After an ordinary debut, (5) CHRYSOL POSH was an improved 2nd at start number two over 1400M on January 4th, coming from off the pace. Expect similar here and third up he can be peaking fitness wise. (8) SMART RISE enters off 3rd place over this distance on January 31st when settling midfield and running on smartly. That was just his fourth start, and he shapes as the main danger. The rest will need to pick up in form. (6) AMOS STAR has shown a couple of glimpses but has tended to get a bit far back. With a central gate and not much speed on his inside, he may be further forward today and can be aiming for a better result (10) BEST FREEDOM and (2) B.K. VIVACE are other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Chrysol Posh (8) Smart Rise (6) Amos Star (10) Best Freedom
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) CRAZY MANGO had been working towards a second win, and it arrived at this class and distance on February 7th when he led for most of the way.  An apprentice claiming 3kg means he comes in under the same weight and from the inside gate, he can be on pace again and can win again. (11) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY remains a maiden but is up in class following back-to-back 2nd place finishes at 1300M. He has the challenge of the widest gate but is down significantly in weight, and he can be a threat. (9) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG was the beaten favourite behind Crazy Mango on February 7th, not really becoming involved having settled back. He previously had three 2nd places from four starts and is worth another chance here. (2) AFLEET RUN and (6) HEART KING others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Crazy Mango (11) Comeback Holymoely (9) Cheongsan Dolpung (2) Afleet Run
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. It’s been a while since (5) I AM GO got her solitary win but she showed signs of coming back into form with a 3rd place at this class and distance on February 8th when settling just behind the speed and finishing well in a quick time. She is up 2kg in weight but in this company, she can be on pace, and it can be her day. (8) COWBOY SOCKS broke through at start number three over this distance on January 31st, racing on pace throughout. She is up in class and while she only comes down 1kg in weight, she can measure up. (11) UNJU TIME has finished in midfield in all three tries at this class, but her maiden win came at this distance and against this set of opponents, she should be close. (7) RAPTURE and (6) WONDERFUL SPIRIT are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) I Am Go (8) Cowboy Socks (11) Unju Time (7) Rapture
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Holiday Monday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 2)

There’s a rare Monday meeting this week to mark the Memorial Day weekend holiday. The races are at Seoul with 10 from 10:35 to 17:55 (there is also pony racing on Jeju Island). Here are the previews:

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

(5) EVER LOVELY did nothing on debut in December but was a much-improved 2nd at odds of 60/1 over this distance on February 1st, racing handy and while well beaten by Super Ttangkong, showed enough to suggest she can win this. (2) WEAK PLAY was similarly underwhelming on debut when 9th of twelve on January 17th, but he had previously looked good in a trial and may be better second-up. (6) JEJU BLUE was 6th on debut in that same January 17th race and with some natural improvement, she can get closer here. (10) GIANT THUNDER was slow on debut but has since been back to trial and looked much better, so is worth another chance today. (8) GRAND COURAGE was the best of the debut-makers in trials.

Selections(5) Ever Lovely (2) Weak Play (6) Jeju Blue (10) Giant Thunder
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Very weak race but that’s by design as it’s for maidens who have made at least five starts and recorded no placings. Someone’s going to Hollywood, but who? Perhaps (7) STORM CHASER. She’s recorded some fair times across six starts and has the least slowest speed out of the gate among these. That suggests she can lead and stay there. (4) M J VET has the quickest time among these for the 1300M, the second quickest average first furlong time, and the quickest average final furlong time. That will probably be enough to make him favourite. (8) DUSON LIFE scores well on those same metrics and can be in the mix. (1) WHIZ GOLD and (5) NEW COWBOY others who can compete in a race that while quite fascinating from a punting angle, will probably need an asterisk next to it in form guides going forward.

Selections(7) Storm Chaser (4) M J Vet (8) Duson Life (1) Whiz Gold
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

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

(9) SU BU TAI has been making progress across his six starts to date comes in following back-to-back 3rd places over 1400M. That means that any top three finish will see him with a rating and up in class and it could well be a win. (8) QUERENCIA has mixed his form over five appearances but does have a couple of 4th places to his name. He has finished off his races well enough and today’s slight step up in trip can suit. (2) SUNGANUI FIGHTER is another who is getting closer and was most recently 4th at 1200M on January 17th. He draws better today and is another for whom the 1400M can be a benefit. (1) AGAIN GOOD MAN and (7) SAHARA ROSE are other place chances.

Selections(9) Su Bu Tai (8) Querencia (2) Sunganui Fighter (1) Again Good Man
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. (4) RAON FINALLE had been working towards a maiden win, and it arrived on her first try at this class over this distance on January 11th when handy throughout and proving too strong. She comes up 4kg in weight, but that’s balanced by coming back into filly and mare company and from a good draw, she can win again. (2) COSMO LONG registered her maiden win at this distance on January 31st on what was start number four. She comes up in class but carries a light weight and from a good gate, she can be competitive. (9) LOVE IN SEOUL is similarly up in class following a maiden victory, in her case over 1300M leading all the way. She can be on pace again and in this a long way. (8) STUNNING PEARL and (6) SMART SOCKS other place chances.

Selections(4) Raon Finalle (2) Cosmo Long (9) Love In Seoul (8) Stunning Pearl
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 10

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

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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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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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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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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 8)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

2022 Korea Sprint winner Eoma Eoma is back for a campaign as a 9yo (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (8) CALL ME SKY ran 2nd on debut to Holly Tiara in a quick similar filly maiden over this distance on December 13th. She’s had eight weeks off since but she can improve for the run and will be a short-price favourite to win here. (1) STUNNING POINT was an improved 5th at start two over this distance. She continues under an apprentice claim and from a better draw than in her first two outings, can get closer. (5) MISS CHRISTIE and (4) RAON THE PLUMA similarly improved to 5th on their respective second appearances and both can be fitter here. Continuing the theme of finishing 5th, (6) BEAT CODE did that on debut and can have come on for that effort.

Selections(8) Call Me Sky (1) Stunning Point (5) Miss Christie (4) Raon The Pluma
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

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

Competitive maiden. (7) BANK LINE has made steady progress across three starts so far with her close 2nd last time out over this distance being her best. She led that day and from a fair draw, she can lead again and this time go all the way. (1) GRACE DAY has similarly raced three times and comes in following a 2nd place last time out when he was slower away than in his first two but ran on well. He shapes as the main danger here. (11) SEOPOKCHAT came from well off the pace to run 3rd on January 11th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can challenge late. (9) HAKSAN HENNY and (3) BEOLGYO EMPEROR among plenty of others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Bank Line (1) Grace Day (11) Seopokchat (9) Haksan Henny
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

(1) TRICK SHOT has led in his latest two for 2nd and 3rd at this distance, most recently beating three of today’s rivals on January 11th. He should get an easier run to the front here and will be favoured to go all the way. (11) MAGIC HAMMER was 4th in that race on January 11th. He has the challenge again of the widest gate and doesn’t get an apprentice claim this time, but third-up he can be peaking and he can run on strongly. (9) QUEEN WIND was an on pace 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 9th. She can show on pace again and once more be in this a long way. (2) BRAVE RUN and (10) MOST WANTED are the other main chances.

Selections(1) Trick Shot (11) Magic Hammer (9) Queen Wind (2) Brave Run
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

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

Not the strongest of maidens. (5) SANGIM YEONGUNG will need his latest forgiven which was the worst of his four starts to date. Before that he registered three top four finishes, coming from off the pace each time, and similar efforts to those can see him win this. (9) K N STORM ran 4th over 1200M on January 3rd, coming from a long way back to beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight light and he can challenge here. (4) JAZZ PURPLE hinted at an uptick in form with a front running 5th at 1300M at the end of December. He is up to 1400M for the first time but can be on pace again and in this a long way. (7) TRIPLE S and veteran (1) P N S PA in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Sangim Yeongung (9) K N Storm (4) Jazz Purple (7) Triple S
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

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

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