With the short Lunar New Year holiday now over, the 2025 Korean racing season gets underway in earnest in February with racing returning from its one week break on February 7th at Busan and with the first big race due to be run the following weekend.
Those aforementioned big leagues get underway with the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy over 1200M at Seoul on Sunday February 16th, a lead up to – if not an actual part of – the Sprint Series. Currently thirteen remain entered, chief among them Speed Young, winner of the Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) at Busan last summer and notably the best placed local finisher in the international G3 Korea Sprint over 1200M in September.
Vincero Cavallo was 6th in the Korea Sprint in 2024 and has won three out of four subsequent starts, most recently an impressive score after getting a long way back over 1200M at class 1 level on January 12th. An intriguing entry is Naol Sniper, who boasts a rating lower than only Speed Young. Were he to take his place in the gate, he would be tackling 1200M for the very first time (although he did win at five furlongs as a juvenile in 2022). Solid sprinters Raon The Point and Saenae Queen are also among the entries.
The following week, the Triple Crown picture is scheduled to start to take shape with the running of Classic trials over 1400M at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday February 23.
Group racing commences with the speedsters in the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on Sunday March 9th while the route horses get their first chance for a big prize a week later at Seoul in the Herald Business Cup (2000M), the opening leg of the Stayer Series, on March 16th.
That latter race would normally have marked the seasonal debut for Korea’s top-rate horse, Global Hit. However, last year’s winner remains in Dubai where after a luckless opening effort at Meydan at the end of January, he will take his chance in the G2 Al Maktoum Classic on March 1st.
March 23rd sees the opening leg of the Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares with the DOnag Ilbo Trophy (1800M KOR-L) at Seoul. As it was in 2024, the series is split into Spring/Summer and Fall Winter with the three-year-olds expected to join the latter on the conclusion of the Triple Tiara.
This year’s Triple Crown series kicks off at Busan on April 6th with the KRA Cup Mile (1600M KOR-G2) before moving to Seoul for the Korean Derby (1800M KOR-G1) on May 11th and finally the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2) on June 15th.
For the three-year-old fillies, the Triple Tiara starts with the Luna Stakes (1600M KOR-L) at Busan on March 30th, followed by the Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2), also on the south-coast on May 4th, concluding with the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul on June 8th.
International invitational races, the Korea Cup (1800M G3) and Korea Sprint (1200M G3) will be run on September 7th while eight other races are Listed in the International Blue Book, including the season finale Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) on November 30th.
Thoroughbred racing in Korea takes place on 50 weeks of the year, usually at Busan on Fridays and Sundays and at Seoul on Saturdays and Sundays.
Racing will take a one week break, with the action not resuming until February 7. We head into the holiday with Sunday cards at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:
Success Baekpa won two legs of the Triple Crown last year. He goes in the feature on Sunday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive maiden to open with. (1) SMART A ONE was a front-running 3rd on debut over this distance back on October 26th. She had a setback after that (ligament strain) but has been back in work since early this month and from a good draw, she can be on pace and has every chance here. (3) GINSHARI BOY led on debut at this distance on December 22nd HE ultimately fell away and finished back in the pack, but he should have come on for that experience and can be in this for longer. (2) INDIAN TAPIT ran a fair 5th on debut at the end of last month and she too can have derived benefit from the experience. (10) TROLL and (6) NAEGILUI ACE others who could be in the minor money frame.
Selections
(1) Smart A One (3) Ginshari Boy (2) Indian Tapit (10) Troll
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
1, 3, 8, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(10) ECLIPSE BLACK will be the warm favourite. After a shaky debut, he has put together a run of 3rd, 4th and most recently 2nd when stepped up to this distance for the first time on December 28th. He will want to be on pace, so he has the challenge of a wide draw, but CC stays on and he is very much the one to beat. (8) UMA DACHI was slow away at start two in that same race on December 28th but ran on very nicely to finish in midfield. With a better start, he can get much closer this time. (3) KING WARRIOR enters off an improved 3rd place at 1300M on December 22nd when on pace throughout. He comes up to the 1400M for the first time and from a good draw, it can suit. Debut maker (1) CHRYSOL DONGHAE along with (9) CYCLONE STAR are others to consider.
Selections
(10) Eclipse Black (8) Uma Dachi (3) King Warrior (1) Chrysol Donghae
Next Best
9, 5
Fast Start
3, 7, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (6) FLYING DAY ran out a winner on debut over 1200M in a filly maiden on December 29th when racing handy throughout. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be an issue, and she can maintain her 100% record. (10) STUNNING PEARL got her maiden win at start number two in November and then ran 2nd on her first try at this class on December 15th over 1300M. She comes up slightly in the weights, but the draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can maintain her record of never being outside of the top three. (7) GAMUN PARTY enters off a maiden win on December 29th. It was at this class, so she comes up a full 3.5kg in the weights, but she warrants respect. (5) SEMYEONG DIA and (2) GROW other placing chances.
Selections
(6) Flying Day (10) Stunning Pearl (7) Gamun Party (5) Semyeong Dia
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies and mares only in the opening maiden on the south coast. (1) GLOBAL HEROINE ran 5th on debut before improving to 3rd at start number two over 1300M on December 27th, with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She led for much of the way that day and from the inside gate can so the same here and this time go all the way. (10) GWANGPUNG STAR has been 4th on both her outings so far, most recently behind Global Heroine in that December 27th race. She can settle back and run on and can be getting closer this time. (9) KKEUTPAN YEOGEOL improved to 4th at start two on November 29th. There isn’t much early speed in this race so she is one of the contenders to join Global Heroine on pace and she can be in this a long way. (8) WONDER MOCCASIN and (6) DOLPHIN KICK others in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Global Heroine (10) Gwangpung Star (9) Kkeutpan Yeogeol (8) Wonder Moccasin
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
1, 5, 8, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Competitive race. (6) SEOUL BINGO got her maiden win at start three over this distance on December 21st when ridden on pace for the first time. She comes up in class here but is down in the weights, Moon Se-young climbs on, and with similar tactics, she can win again. (8) SCALE KING got his maiden win at the eleventh time of asking at this class and distance on December 22nd, settling midfield and proving too strong. He comes up 3kg in the weights but can be competitive again and a danger late on. (7) BAEDARI KWAEGEOM saw her form go a little cold across last summer, but she finished off 2024 well with a 3rd and a 2nd. She comes in fresh off a nine-week lay off and can be in the mix again. (3) NAOL INDY and (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA other minor money chances.
Selections
(6) Seoul Bingo (8) Scale King (7) Baedari Kwaegeom (3) Naol Indy
Next Best
5, 10
Fast Start
3, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) YOUNG SKYWALKER was a beaten favourite three times before finally breaking through at the fourth time of asking on December 29th when racing handy and running on. That was at this class and distance so he does come up 3.5kg in weight, but in this company, he should be on or close to the pace and the force can be with him once more. It only took (10) TOHAMSAN TIGER two attempts to get his maiden win, which he did at this distance on January 5th. He makes a quick return here up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (5) SWORD MASTER was an also-ran in the Breeders’ Cup Rookie for juveniles in November but bounced back to run 2nd at this class over a mile just before Christmas, albeit a long way behind a very good-looking winner. He comes back to the trip at which he got his win and Munro knows him well. (4) YONGBI PAEWANG finished 3rd in two Listed events as a juvenile last term and back down in trip can be given a chance. (9) WORLD WINNERS MAN another to consider on a place line.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(8) DREAM CARD returned from six months out in December and has run 3rd twice, both at this class and both over 1400M. He steps up to 1700M for the first time, but his style suggests it can suit and third up he can be peaking fitness wise. (6) SPEED CARA enters having beaten a few of these when an on-pace 3rd at this class over 1800M on December 28th. He is one for one at this distance and shapes as the main danger. (11) ELDORADO HEUNGBU was 4th in that race behind Speed Cara. He is yet to win in six attempts but should have derived benefit from his first go around two turns and can be there or thereabouts today. (1) LOVE O MINE and the up in class (3) LUCKY FAMOUS are others in the hunt.
Selections
(8) Dream Card (6) Speed Cara (11) Eldorado Heungbu (1) Love O Mine
Next Best
3, 7
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 11
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) RICH TREE looks the one to beat here. After running 2nd at a mile two starts back, he stepped up to two turns for the first time on December 27th and after a slow start from a wide gate, ran on for 5th. He should have benefitted from that experience and from a slightly better gate and with a better start, he can win. That will mean overturning the form on (12) THE WIND, who ran 4th in that race, coming from well off the pace. The wide draw is no problem, Munro stays on, and he can be there or thereabouts again. (10) BLUE POINT is yet to win in twelve attempts but has been getting closer and comes in off a smart class and distance 2nd just two weeks ago. He is another who likes to settle back and run on, and he can be danger late. (3) FAT BOY and (1) HI CHAMP others in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Rich Tree (12) The Wind (10) Blue Point (3) Fat Boy
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
There’s an 11-race card at Seoul on Saturday from 10.35 to 18.00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Twelve unraced three-year-olds, nine of them fillies. The best in trials was (10) BITNARA, who after failing to qualify in May, came back at the start of this month and having settled midfield, ran through the line well for a close 3rd in a decent time If he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (9) FASHION STAR took a while to get going in her trial but finished off pleasingly enough clocking a fair time. The 1200M of the race should be better than the 1000M of the trial and she can run well first-up. (12) THUNDER FIRE is another who ran on from an unpromising position and can be considered. (6) GIDAEHARA showed on pace in her trial and while she weakened that’s enough to give her a chance here. (3) HAPPY FRIEND another who hinted at ability.
Selections
(10) Bitnara (9) Fashion Star (12) Thunder Fire (6) Gidaehara
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Imported three-year-old maidens with two of them racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on both of those newcomers (8) GLORY YEONGGWANG, who led all the way to win his trial very comfortably in a quick time at the end of November. Ruan Maia has begun the year in great form, and he can continue here. (5) MIGHTY EVER trialed up on Boxing Day, settling midfield and running on well for 2nd in a good time given the conditions. The 1200M can suit first up and he can be a danger. Among the experienced, (10) GWANAKSAN BLACK led on debut over this distance on November 10th, ultimately coming home 5th. He has had eleven weeks off since so comes in fresh and with a bit of luck at the start, he can find a forward position. (9) TIARA SUA and (1) GRAY CANDY others who can improve.
Selections
(8) Glory Yeonggwang (5) Mighty Ever (10) Gwanaksan Black (9) Tiara Sua
Next Best
1, 4
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Weak maiden. (8) MALSGO did precisely nothing in two starts in November and right at the beginning of December. He has though been back to trial since then and looked much better, running a close 2nd in a good time. If he brings that form in here, he can win. Debut-maker (7) CHRYSOL NIKE didn’t set the world alight in her trial but stuck to her task well enough to suggest she has potential. Kozzi is aboard, she draws nicely, and she should be available at an each-way price. (3) CHAMP HAMSEONG ran 5th on debut in November, and that’s probably enough for her to have favourite status here. She was poor on her second start but is worth another chance in this company. (10) CUPID WORLD and (11) CAPTAIN RISE others who may improve.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Another modest maiden although this one is very competitive so should have plenty of interest. (7) SAVANA CHARLIE beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on December 29th, settling back and running on. It was an uptick in his recent form, and he has as much chance as any here. (9) FLYING LUCKY stepped up to 1700M for the first time in that December 29th race and ran a solid 4th place. She should have derived benefit from a first spin around two turns and under a similar weight and with Jeong Woo-ju, who is riding well lately, staying up, she can get closer. The pair of those have no wins from thirty-one starts between them so if you prefer one with more potential improvement then (4) EUNPA MUSIC could be it. He ran 5th in that December 29th race in what was his first try at 1700M and just his fifth race overall, and he can get better. (2) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG has a 2nd place to his name over this distance and must be considered. (11) GHOST CHRYSOL another in the frame.
Selections
(7) Savana Charlie (9) Flying Lucky (4) Eunpa Music (2) Naegiluiyeonggwang
Next Best
11, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Sunday’s racing is at Seoul, with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 and at Busan, where there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:
Can Seirene return to winning ways? (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) NICE WINNER ran 5th on debut in October when slowly away, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 7th when leading for much of the way around. He will lead again here and will be the warm favourite to go one better. Second favourite will be (1) IMRO. After a fair trial, he ran a solid 4th of eleven over this distance on debut on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. He should have come on for that run and from a great draw, can get closer this time. (5) MUNHAK CHUKJE came from off the pace on his debut to run 4th. He too can have derived benefit from that experience and can improve here. (9) WONDERFUL CATHAY and (2) JOSE others who have hinted at ability.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Moon Se-young will be aboard another short price favourite. (11) GRAND KWAEMA has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from three starts so far, most recently at this distance on December 14th when settling midfield and running on. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M and won’t need to improve much to win here. (10) YEOMYEONGUI SUNGAN was an encouraging 4th on debut at 1200M on December 7th, settling back and running on. She drew the same wide gate that day and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) COMMAND BLUE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and she can continue to make progress here. (9) BREEDO KING STAR and (3) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(11) Grand Kwaema (10) Yeomyeongui Sungan (5) Command Blue (9) Breedo King Star
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
3, 7, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Moon Se-young could really be having a proper day out early on Sunday as he is on another warm favourite here in the shape of (11) DRAGON KILLER. He came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 22nd and while he once more draws wide, the way he finished off suggests that the additional half furling can be in his favour and he can go one better today. (7) RAON NOTHERN DANCE got a long way back on debut but has since run 3rd and 4th, most recently over this distance on December 22nd. He can settle just behind the speed and be a danger here. (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG has finished midfield in both starts so far but is another who may benefit from a slightly increased trip and third-up, he can be peaking fitness wise. (9) MERIT SUNSHINE and (3) CHRYSOL MAJOR others to consider.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (8) B.K DANCING GIRL was an eye-catching trial winner, causing her to be sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on November 29th. She led for most of the way but ultimately got caught and ended up in 3rd place. She’s had seven weeks off since then, she should lead again, and this time she can go all the way. It’s not a strong set of rivals. (7) COME ON GLORY and (5) ROAD TO SPRING came home 5th and 6th when they raced each other on the latter’s debut on December 13th. The former has races once since, struggling over 1400M two weeks ago, but back at this trip both can be in the place hunt. (11) QUEEN TYCHE and (2) WONDER ROAD others who may improve without really inspiring much confidence.
Selections
(8) B.K Dancing Girl (7) Come On Glory (5) Road To Spring (11) Queen Tyche
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (7) TOHOMARKET is yet to win in eleven attempts but after back-to-back runner-up finishes to get promoted to this level, she has finished no worse than 4th in four class 5 outings. In this company, she can sit just behind the speed and today could be her day. (5) RED DRAGON came from well off the pace to win over 1200M on her debut on December 14th. She comes up in class and marginally in trip, but she is down in the weights, draws well, and Moon climbs on. (10) SINHAN ACE was runner-up on debut but got her maiden win at start number two on December 21st, over 1200M. She too comes up in class and distance but is down in weight and can measure up. (3) TOUCH CHARM and (8) QUEEN ABIGAIL are the other logical placing chances.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(1) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG was a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. She comes up to 1400M for the first time today and with a bit more improvement, she can go one better. (2) RIGHT CHAMP has been knocking on the door across her five starts to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance. She was slow away last time but draws better here to be on pace and is a real chance. (9) BLACK EQUUS got a long way back on debut but ran on pleasingly enough for a midfield finish. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go closer today. (7) WORLD TAEYANG and (5) HANEULPYEONGJEONG are the other place chances.
Selections
(1) Tohamsan Taeyang (2) Right Champ (9) Black Equus (7) World Taeyang
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 4
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener and (10) SEOMDOLMORU will be the hot favourite. After an inauspicious debut, she was a much better 2nd over this distance on December 14th, racing handy and nearly getting up. She won’t need to improve a lot on that to win here. (8) MISS FAMOUS beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place on debut in a similar race to this on December 21st and looks to be the main danger. That pair were (5) GOOD FRIEND and (2) NAMSAN SONYEO who came home 6th and 7th respectively although both showed enough then and in their prior trials, to suggest they can get better. There are two debut-makers and (7) LA FESTA perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.
Selections
(10) Seomdolmoru (8) Miss Famous (5) Good Friend (2) Namsan Sonyeo
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
6, 7, 8, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(5) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG has been getting closer in his latest few, culminating in a 2nd place on what was his first try at this distance on December 21st, when he raced on pace and beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight nice and light and he is the one to beat here. (8) TRES VITE was 3rd in that race, his best finish in twenty-six outings. He too has been getting progressively closer in recent starts and can go one better today in what is, frankly, one of the weaker maidens you will find at Seoul. (1) CHOCO BEAUTY has a 2nd place on her record as recently as October and can be running on late. (6) BLACK RUSSIAN and (2) YONGBI KING, the latter 4th in that December 21st race, are other placing chances.
Selections
(5) Beautiful Hwaseong (8) Tres Vite (1) Choco Beauty (6) Black Russian
Next Best
2, 3
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Another short-priced favourite in the shape of (6) EAST GANGJEOK. After finishing 5th on debut, he has since registered back-to-back 3rd places at 1200M and last time this trip on December 14th. He’ll be on pace, Ruan Maia climbs on, and today should be the day. (9) CHANGJOUI GIDONG returned from six months out on December 21st to run a fair 6th of eleven over 1400M. Before the layoff he managed a 2nd and a 3rd and stripping fitter today, he can be a threat. (11) CHOWOLMA has hinted at ability in two outings to date, most recently 5th behind East Gangjeok in that December 14th race. The wide draw shouldn’t prove a problem, and he can continue to improve. The form drops off considerably after those three, with (1) LADY BLUE and (5) BLACK SMILE perhaps best of the rest.
Selections
(6) East Gangjeok (9) Changjoui Gidong (11) Chowolma (1) Lady Blue
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
1, 3, 6, 7
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Since getting his maiden win at start three over 1200M in October, (10) MORE THAN JOKE has been a beaten favourite in two attempts at this class, running 2nd and then 3rd at this distance, most recently on December 21st. In this company he should be on pace, and he can make it third time lucky here. (4) UGWANGMYEONG was a winner on debut on December 22nd having drawn the widest gate and then gone right back before swooping home. He comes up in class and marginally in trip here, but he can measure up. (3) PHANTOM DRAGON races for the first time since his maiden win last July. He looked well on a December trial and from a good draw, can be in the mix first up. (2) ASSI JANGGUN and (5) ECLIPSE EDGE others to consider.
Selections
(10) More Than Joke (4) Ugwangmyeong (3) Phantom Dragon (2) Assi Janggun
Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maiden fillies in the opener. Two race for the first time and we’ll take a chance on one of them with (1) BISANG DAY. She qualified with a solid 3rd place in a December trial in a fair time having led through the early stages. She draws nicely to lead here and couldn’t ask for a softer race to debut in. The favourite will be (10) UNJU TIME. She ran a solid 4th of eleven on debut over this distance in a similar filly only maiden on December 14th, settling back and running on. She should have derived benefit from that and with some natural improvement, has every chance. (3) KARA K improved to 5th at start number two over 1000M in October. She comes in here fresh after thirteen weeks out and can be in the mix here. (9) HIGH CLASS and the other debut maker (8) POWER BAND are others to consider.
Selections
(1) Bisang Day (10) Unju Time (3) Kara K (9) High Class
Next Best
8, 11
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) HYEUKMUSANG got promoted to this class with back-to-back runner-up finishes in his first two outings, both at 1200M, before running 6th in a competitive race on his first try at this class on November 30th. The slight step up in trip can suit, Kozzi climbs on, and he can win here. (9) WANGCHOEGO is also yet to win but comes up in class following a very narrow defeat in a decent time over 1200M on December 7th. He finished off very well so should be ready for another crack at this distance and down in the weights, has every chance of going close. (1) CUPID HEART was a maiden winner at start four over 1200M on December 14th. It wasn’t a quick race, but he won well and can measure up in this company. (8) JURING SKY and (4) WONDERFUL SEEKING others in the hunt.
(5) ECLIPSE THE KING got his maiden win at start number four on December 8th when he raced on pace for the first time and went on to score comfortably over 1300M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be an issue, and he can win again here. (2) GANGNARU ran 3rd in his first two starts before getting his maiden win at outing three on December 14th, racing handy throughout over 1300M. He already has a place at this distance to his name and up in class but well drawn, he can more than measure up. (10) APPLE STYLE will need a line drawn through his first effort at this class, but he is a winner at this distance as recently as November and CC climbing up is in his favour. (9) B.K. BELLE and (7) PINK GOLD others in the hunt.
Selections
(5) Eclipse The King (2) Gangnaru (10) Apple Style (9) B.K. Belle
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
1, 2, 5, 7
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) WANNABE WITH YOU came from off the pace to run 3rd on debut in a filly only maiden on December 8th. She should have come on for that experience, the additional trip can suit, and she is the one to beat. Her debut was perhaps marginally more impressive than that of (9) INDY GHOST. Nevertheless, the latter acquitted herself when similarly 3rd first up over 1300M on December 20th, also settling back and running on. She too should appreciate the slight step up in trip and she is the main danger. (6) CARIBBEAN BAY was 4th n debut and then beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 6th of twelve over 1300M on December 13th and that’s enough to make him clear third pick here. (2) FAST QUEEN and (1) GLORY WIND other minor money hopes.
Selections
(8) Wannabe With You (9) Indy Ghost (6) Caribbean Bay (2) Fast Queen
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 5, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(9) WESTERN GUN was a dominant winner on debut over 1400M in October before running 2nd on his first try at this class, again over the seven-furlongs, on his first try at this class on December 14th, racing handy. He steps up to two turns for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he is very much the one to beat. (10) MK LEE enters following three consecutive 3rd place finishes at this class and distance. He has the challenge of the widest gate but he does have the fastest time among these for the 1700M and should be in the mix again. (11) K POWERFUL was 4th being Western Gun in that December 14th race and he also steps up to two turns for the first time. The widest gate isn’t ideal, but if he can find a decent position early, he can be in the finish. (1) MAX WEEK and (2) GANDAGO, both last start winners, the former at this class and distance, are others to consider.
Its been a very cold week in Seoul although it should warm up a little before the weekend program gets underway. There are 11 races on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Three-year-old maidens with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. The experience is by and large good though and (8) AFLEET RUN will be the favourite. He raced handy on debut over 1200M on December 8th ultimately running home in 3rd place. He should have derived benefit from that experience and won’t need to improve too much to win this. Nor though will (12) TAPDINE. After winning a November trial, he led for much of the way on his debut on December 1st, ultimately finishing 3rd. He has the challenge of the widest gate, but he should be equal to it. (10) BEOLGYO LAVA has raced twice, finishing 4th on both occasions. Her times haven’t been quick, but she should have a fitness edge on the newcomers and can be close. Of those first-time starters (1) BAEKDU ILSEONG and (9) JECHUK LOG IN looked the best in trials.
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Three-year-old imported maidens here and (2) PALATINO will be the hot favourite. After running 2nd on debut in November, he beat three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over 1300M on December 14th. He’ll be on pace here and while he was the beaten favourite that day, it would be a big surprise if he falls short again. Naming your horse (5) WINNING CHAMPION is a bold move but he did offer a hint of promise on debut when 5th over 1200M in a quick race back at the end of October. He comes in fresh after eleven weeks off and can get closer today. There are a couple of first-time starters and (6) SAINT RUNNER came from off the pace to run on well in his trial and 1200M first up can suit. (8) ACE K and (1) BAKCHARA may improve.
Selections
(2) Palatino (5) Winning Champion (6) Saint Runner (8) Ace K
Next Best
1, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 5
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(6) GWANGGYOUI GISANG debuted with a 3rd place in November and followed up with a 2nd on December 14th when he led for most of the way around over 1300M. In this company he will be on pace, and he won’t need to be much better to go one better here. After an ordinary debut, (9) HIGH CROWN has since registered a 2nd and a 4th from two subsequent appearances, both over this distance. He can settle behind the speed here and can challenge late. (11) DIXIE MAN ran 3rd on debut at this distance and while he weakened having shown close to the front on his second start on December 15th, Moon Se-young stays up and he can be given another chance. (5) WONDERFUL ALONG and (4) MYEONG POWER the other main placing chances.
Selections
(6) Gwanggyoui Gisang (9) High Crown (11) Dixie Man (5) Wonderful Along
Next Best
4, 7
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive maiden. (8) DRAGON K enters off his best to date on December 14th when he beat a couple of these with a front running effort on his way to 2nd place. He will be on pace here and has as much chance as any of going one better. (4) I AM GO has finished no worse than 5th in four attempts so far with her best being a runner-up finish over 1000M back in July. She had four months off after that and has a 5th and a 4th in her two starts back. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and Moon Se-young staying on will tempt plenty. (7) SPARTAN has two 3rd places from his latest three and seems to be figuring things out at last. He likes to lead, and he can be in this a long way. (11) MG FIRST and (3) CHUPUNGNYEONG, the latter finishing off very strongly last time out having gone right back and who can be peaking at start three, are others to keep safe.
Selections
(8) Dragon K (4) I Am Go (7) Spartan (11) MG First
Next Best
3, 10
Fast Start
4, 7, 8, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (1) GOLD QUEENS came from off the pace on debut to score over 1200M on November 16th. It wasn’t a quick race, but she did what was asked of her in fine fashion and while she is up in class, she carries a light weight, and she can measure up. (5) GEUNYANG GARA beat Gold Queens in a trial last October and got her maiden win over 1200M in November. She had a poor day at the office on her latest when weakening late over 1300M just before Christmas, but she can be given another chance here. (3) ONEULDO SMILE won on debut over 1000M in August. She hasn’t raced since but she looked well enough when going through a Boxing Day trial and from a good draw can be in the hunt. (8) ANDAMIRO and (4) ROYAL PLUS others to consider.
The capital track’s 2025 season kicks off on Saturday with an 11-race card from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Three-year-old filly maidens with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. (8) SAMJEONG LADY ran 3rd on debut in a similar filly only maiden to this at the end of October, settling midfield and running on. She’s had ten weeks off since then, but that experience can be key in seeing her home on top here. (9) CLAIR BIG BANG is the pick of the debut-makers. She led every step of the way in her trial, winning it by plenty and in a quick time. If she brings that form to the races, she is a big chance first-up. (5) TTOSUNI SEOUL was a fair 5th of eleven on debut over this distance on November 23rd and she can have come on for the run. Returning to the first timers, (11) HERO CHOICE and (6) SALVADOR hinted at ability in trials.
Selections
(8) Samjeong Lady (9) Clair Big Bang (5) Ttosuni Seoul (11) Hero Choice
Next Best
6, 4
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After a couple of goes to figure things out, (10) LEMON K has a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, most recently beating three of these over this distance on December 8th when handy throughout. Expect similar tactics here and she can go one better. (7) GLOBAL SERVE was 3rd in that December race having led for much of the way around. He also has a 2nd place to his name and from a fair draw, can be on pace and in this a long way again. (9) RAON SPILETTA did nothing on debut in September but was much improved at start number two on November 30th when an on-pace 4th. An apprentice claim means he carries 2kg less this time and can continue to make progress. (11) CHEONJI LADY and (1) WONPYEONG NURI other placing chances.
Selections
(10) Lemon K (7) Global Serve (9) Raon Spiletta (11) Cheonji Lady
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(1) JISAN FORCE was ordinary on debut in October but came up to this trip for start number two on December 1st and having drawn the widest gate, came from off the pace to run a strong 2nd with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. Drawing much better and without much speed in this race, he may well be on pace from the start this time and will be favoured to win. (6) YEOLJEONGMA was slow away on debut over 1200M on December 8th but ran on well to finish in midfield. He should have derived benefit from the experience, the additional trip can suit, and he should be closer this time. That will mean overturning the form on (9) TURBO CHARGE, who ran 4th in that December 8th race. That matched her previous finish, and she is another who may enjoy the step up in distance. (10) ECO FORE and (4) THUNDER LUCKY others to consider.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only in this maiden. (8) DONGBANG FORCE enters off 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at 1200M and both times racing on pace. She should be the quickest to the front here and she has every chance. (6) DIA ROOK was very narrowly beaten into 2nd three starts back when she led and was 3rd on her latest coming from off the pace. She’ll be challenging for the lead here and Moon Se-young being booked for the first time means she will probably start as the favourite. (3) GRACE ROUTE improved to 3rd at start two on December 14th and from a much better draw can be in the finish again. (9) LADY FOX and (2) SWITCH POWER among other place chances.
Selections
(8) Dongbang Force (6) Dia Rook (3) Grace Route (9) Lady Fox
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
The final race day of 2024 is on Sunday with an 11-race card at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and a 6 race card at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maiden fillies with all but two racing for the first time. (3) TEUKGEUP PARTY was the quickest in trials, finishing 4th in her heat behind three experienced racehorses having settled midfield and run on. She draws well here and has every chance first up. (2) FLYING DAY went through a slower trial but more than held her own with a close 3rd running on well. Drawn well and with Moon Se-young booked, she will have plenty of backers. One of the two with racing experience is (7) JUNMA FORCE. She debuted fairly when 5th over 1300M on November 30th and that experience should give her the edge over most of the newcomers. Returning to the debut makers, (4) GYEOUL JANGMI and trial winner (9) NAEGILUI ACE look the next best.
Selections
(3) Teukgeup Party (2) Flying Day (7) Junma Force (4) Gyeoul Jangmi
Next Best
9, 6
Fast Start
4, 5, 9, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) POWER MONSTER has made good progress across three starts so far, culminating in a close 2nd place over 1200M on November 30th when settling midfield and running on. The slight step up in trip can suit, and he can go one better today. (11) RAON SILENCE ran a solid 4th on debut over this distance on November 30th when beginning well then dropping back before rallying well. She should have come on for that run and she will be disputing favourite status here. (2) MEGA STEP has two 3rd places to her name among five starts. She can get a bit far back in her races but draws well to sit behind the speed and pressure late. (8) FOX TROT and (5) TAEGISAN KING are other place chances.
Selections
(3) Power Monster (11) Raon Silence (2) Mega Step (8) Fox Trot
Next Best
5, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) DOCTOR CASTLE didn’t do a lot on debut but was much improved at start number two over 1400M on November 1st when coming from off the pace and finishing strongly for 2nd place, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. The step up to a mile should be in his favour and he is the one to beat. The unkindly named (9) FAT BOY has five top-five finishes among his nine starts. He has been doing his best work late in his races and is another for who the additional distance can suit. (12) FLYING ICE beat three of these when coming from a long way back to run 3rd at 1400M on December 6th. He has a 4th already over the mile and in this company should be aiming for at least the places. (5) SWORD WING and (3) CLOUD LOVE are other place chances.
Selections
(2) Doctor Castle (9) Fat Boy (12) Flying Ice (5) Sword Wing
Next Best
3, 1
Fast Start
1, 4, 7, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(9) WITH DIS KURO has made progress over four starts so far culminating in a 2nd place when sent up to this distance for the first time on October 19th, leading for much of the way. He comes in fresh following ten weeks off and should have too much here. (10) MERIT SUNSHINE beat three of these on her way to 3rd place on her first try at this distance on November 30th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and with CC climbing up, she shapes as the main danger. (2) ROPPONGI DRAGON ran on too late on debut over 1200M on December 7th. He should have learned plenty from that and from a better draw and up in trip, can go much closer here. (4) SUN GALLANT and (3) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG are others to consider.
Selections
(9) With Dis Kuro (10) Merit Sunshine (2) Roppongi Dragon (4) Sun Gallant
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(5) YOUNG SKYWALKER has been the beaten favourite in all three of his outings so far, with two 2nd places and a 3rd. He has been on pace on each occasion but just hasn’t managed to finish off. He comes up in class today but that actually may work out well for him as he is down in weight and there isn’t too much to fear. He gets another chance. (1) GRAND CHASER stepped up to this distance for the first time on November 29th and ran a solid 2nd place. She comes into a much better gate and third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness wise. (12) WORLD WINNERS MAN has been working his way back towards a second win with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on November 22nd his latest and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, he can be dangerous. (10) BLUE POINT and the up in class (4) STEROPES are others in the hunt.
Selections
(5) Young Skywalker (1) Grand Chaser (12) World Winner s Man (10) Blue Point
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 7
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 12 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juveniles with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with a first timer and (8) SAHARA KHAN who showed on pace in his trial, crossing the line 2nd in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races, he has every chance first up. (11) SSOARA STAR ran a close 2nd on his debut over 1200M on December 12th, settling behind the speed and running on. He should have come on for that run and the slight step up in trip can suit. (12) JEULGEOUN SANGSANG was 3rd on his debut on November 24th, running through the line pleasingly enough and he can be in the frame again here. So too can (2) GWANAKSAN CHECK IN who debuted back in September with a fair 5th but trialed up again in November and can improve. Returning to the first timers, (7) BS STORM looks next best based on trials.
Selections
(8) Sahara Khan (11) Ssoara Star (12) Jeulgeoun Sangsang (2) Gwanaksan Check In
Next Best
7, 5
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Imported juvenile maidens with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (2) DREAMER WHIZ has a 3rd and a 2nd from his two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. He was well beaten by the very promising Tap Tier last time out but in this company and well-drawn, he can be on pace, and he can go one better. (7) BLUE PIORA has a 3rd and a 4th from her two first appearances at 1200M and 1300M, settling back and running on both times. She has shown good late speed and shapes as the main danger here. (3) DANCING GRAYTIZ ran 3rd on debut behind Dreamer Whiz on November 24th, coming from well off the pace. He has three-lengths to make up but should have come on for that run. Among the first timers, (5) MIGHTY SWEET and (10) HANAM ELDORADO perhaps have the best chance of an immediate impact.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (2) BYEOKSONG debuted over 1200M on November 23rd and raced handy before running 3rd. The time wasn’t quick, and she was a long way behind the winner, but she should have come on for the run, and she has every chance. (5) GWANAKSAN JOY was 4th in that race on November 23rd having led through the early stages. She also has a 2nd place on her record and well-drawn, she can lead again and be in this a long way. (9) YONGAM SARANG did nothing in her first two starts in September and October, but she looked much better when sent back to trial earlier this month and can be given another chance. (3) STUNNING WORLD and (11) NAEGILUI CHAMP are other potential improvers.
Selections
(2) Byeoksong (5) Gwanaksan Joy (9) Yongam Sarang (3) Stunning World
Next Best
11, 10
Fast Start
5, 8, 9, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) SPLENDID has been knocking on the door across his six starts so far and comes in following the best of them when 3rd over 1300M on November 24th when leading in the home straight. He draws very nicely to lead again, and this time can go all the way. (9) ECLIPSE BLACK did nothing on debut in a very tough Listed race in September but has since put in a 3rd and a 4th in two subsequent outings, racing handy both times. He has the challenge of a wide draw, but he can be a danger here. (6) CRAZE CHANG is yet to finish in the top two in eleven outings, but he has finished between 3rd and 5th in no fewer than six occasions, and this is the kind of race he can pick up another cheque in. (3) CUPID K and (4) RAON THE BELMONT are others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Splendid (9) Eclipse Black (6) Craze Chang (3) Cupid K
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
1, 2, 8, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(10) GEOSEN GANGHO ran 2nd in both his first two starts to get promoted to this level and then ran 3rd on his class 5 bow over 1300M on November 16th when settling midfield and running on. He continues under a light weight here and while he draws a touch wider than ideal, he’ll be the favourite to make his breakthrough. (3) THEME TANSAENG finally made his breakthrough two starts back at this class and distance. He carries his fair share or weight here but draws nicely and can be a threat. (11) YUSUBUJAENGSEON has a 3rd and a 4th in two tries at this class since a maiden win in October. He comes up to 1400M for the first time and has proven tactically versatile so the wide gate shouldn’t be a problem. Up in class (4) WONDERFUL FAPPY along with (8) DREAM CARD are others in the hunt.
Horse Racing in Korea 