Seoul

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 18)

There is plenty to get stuck into this Sunday as Seoul runs an 11-race card from 10:45 to 18:00 while Busan has 6 races from 12:15 to 16:40. Here are the previews:

Two weeks after Winner’s Man won the Korea Cup, racing returns to Seoul (Pic: KRA/Ross Holburt)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. We will side with experience and (10) RAON FOREST, who has two starts under his belt, having run 2nd on debut in July before following up with a 5th place on August 13th both over this distance and both in decent times. He draws a touch wide again but can settle handy and it can be third-time lucky. The pick of the first timers is (6) MAESTRA. She ran a solid 2nd in her heat in a fair time and Moon Se-young’s presence on board is in her favour. (4) FOUR ACE finished 6th of eight on debut on August 14th, however, the time was fast and the margins not big and he should have benefitted from the experience. Returning to the debut makers, (12) ARA MOA and (2) SMART SOCKS are others to consider.

Selection(10) Raon Forest (6) Maestra (4) Four Ace (12) Ara Moa
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) JAKDUKONG is yet to finish in the top two but enters with her recent form reading well with a 3rd and two 4th place finishes in her latest three and has good times for this distance. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but can be ridden handy here and can win. (9) TOP POSITION has hinted at ability over six starts so far. She finishes off her races well so the wide draw shouldn’t be too problematic, and she can be aiming for a career-best showing. (1) FLYING GOLD returns to action for the first time since April. His best run to date came on his final run before the layoff when runner-up over 1200M. He looked well in his trial in late August and should go well first-up here. (2) BOLD AGAIN and (6) GENTLE RULES are among others who can go close.

Selection(7) Jakdukong (9) Top Position (1) Flying Gold (2) Bold Again
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) ROSE GOLD will be the favourite here based on his last start effort on August 14th when he sat handy and then ran on strongly, denied by the favourite by a narrow margin on the line. That continued a run of improving results and he can crown that with victory here. (9) DAESEUNG GAON is yet to finish in the top two but comes in off a solid 3rd place at this distance on August 13th when coming from well back. A good apprentice takes 2kg off her back and that can bring her into contention. (5) GOLD KAISER returns to action for the first time since January. She has two 3rd places from her four starts but will be backed here based on her good trial on August 26th when she crossed the line 2nd in a good time. If she brings that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (6) SECRET KING should be on pace and can improve on his debt performance while (8) CHEONMA CHAT is another in the hunt.

Selection(7) Rose Gold (9) Daeseung Gaon (5) Gold Kaiser (6) Secret King
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open proceedings on the south coast and four of the twelve are racing for the first time. There is some useful experience entered though and (9) THUNDER FURY will be the favourite. After a good trial showing, he ran a solid 3rd place on debut in a good time over 1000M on August 7th. He settled back and ran on that day and the additional furlong should be to his benefit.  (12) MOTHER MOUNTAIN also put in a good 3rd on debut on August 21st. She must contend with the outside gate today, but the same apprentice keeps the weight very low, and she can be competitive again. (11) ADELE HORANGI also comes in off a 3rd place on debut. He was a long way behind the first two home but should have come on for the experience and can get closer this time. The pick of the newcomers is (5) WONDERFUL VOW. She led for most of the way around in her trial, crossing the line in front in a fair time. (10) I’M KING IJI another who can improve on his debut effort.

Selection(9) Thunder Fury (12) Mother Mountain (11) Adele Horangi (5) Wonderful Vow
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(8) KINGS EYE has been consistent across his four starts so far with a 3rd place at 1200M his best. Last time out on August 20th he overcame gate ten to beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th in a good time over this distance and he could well have too much for this lot. (5) GOMANARU showed significant improvement at start number two over this distance at the very end of July, coming from midfield to run 4th.  She can settle back again here and be running on strong at the business end. (11) SHOOTING REVERSE has a 2nd place to her name among three starts so far. She has been doing her best work late on in her races so far so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and the slight step up in trip may assist. (3) TANSAN and (6) GEUMA WITTY among plenty of others with placing claims.

Selection(8) Kings Eye (5) Gomanaru (11) Shooting Reverse (3) Tansan
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 17)

Racing returns to Seoul today (Saturday) with a 10-race program from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul is back

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A juvenile maiden kicks off Seoul’s autumn season and seven of the twelve are racing for the first time. (3) GLOBAL POWER has raced twice before, improving to 3rd at the second attempt on August 13th when settling midfield and running on. It was a good time and from a good draw, he can get closer today. There is not much to choose between him and (1) DREAM SKY, who enters with very similar form. She has a 5th and a 3rd from her two appearances to date and will be expected to be on the pace from the inside gate here. She has every chance of going all the way. Moon Se-young aboard a first-time starter is always going to attract plenty of attention and (10) DAEWANG SOCKS finished off his trial very well having been slowly away and then sat at the back throughout. He looks the pick of the debutants. (5) CUPID SWING and (2) BIG SMART others to keep safe.

Selections(3) Global Power (1) Dream Sky (10) Daewang Socks (5) Cupid Swing
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

The second division of the juvenile maiden and this time eight of the twelve are first-timers. Once more we’ll side with experience and (5) POWERFUL SOCKS, who has raced twice before, settling right back both times and then running on. He should have come on for those experiences and with a bit more improvement here, he can win. A couple of debut0makers caught the eye in trials. (7) G MOTION held his own on pace in company with some experienced runners, stopping the clock in a fair time and with an apprentice claiming 2kg, can be a danger first up here. (3) MOONHAK EDEN won her trial and from a good draw is set to be on the speed here and can make a bold showing. Returning to the experience, (11) EIFFEL TAP and (6) GEOMEUN JILJU are others who can improve.

Selections(5) Powerful Socks (7) G Motion (3) Moonhak Eden (11) Eiffel Tap
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens this time and it’s hard to look too far past (7) BEST FALCON. She has steadily improved across her latest three culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance in an all-filly affair on August 13th. She has the fastest time among these at the distance, she likes to be on pace and once she hits the front here, she may prove hard to catch. (8) DEVIL K has also shown promise in her latest couple including a close 3rd place last time out over this distance in a good time. Her only bad run so far was on debut when she was slowly away and got too far back but she should be running on strong here. (2) MAGIC JUDE has a couple of places to her name already. She returned from eight months out on August 27th to run an on-pace 3rd at this distance and from a good draw, can challenge Best Falcon for the lead. (3) MY GONGJU will go back and run on and has already proven he can place while of the three first-time starters, (10) LEEWOLMA, runner-up in a late July trial, looks to have the best chance of making an immediate impression.

Selections(7) Best Falcon (8) Devil K (2) Magic Jude (3) My Gongju
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

While we usually side with experience, we are going to take a chance on one of the two debut-makers here. (8) HANGANGUI GISANG was so bad in his first trial that he failed to qualify but he looked a totally different animal when reappearing on August 26th to lead his heat from gate to wire and cross the line in a fast time. If he brings that kind of form to the races, he has every chance. On the experienced side, (5) DONGTEUJA WAY is the pick. He comes in off an on-pace 3rd place over this distance in a quick time on August 14th and a similar run will put him in the finish again. (6) BICHUICA was also on the speed as he recorded his best finish to date in 2nd place over this distance on July 9th. He comes in fresh after two months and can be a danger again. (1) PURGE DAY ran twice last year with a 2nd over 1000M in the second of thm. He reappears here for the first time since last November but looked very well in an August trial and is worth keeping safe first-up. The consistent (7) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM is another with minor money claims.

Selections(8) Hangangui Gisang (5) Dongteuja Way (6) Bichuica (1) Purge Day
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8
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Seoul Trophy Exchange Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 3)

The day before the international Korea Cup and Korea Sprint sees a 10-race card at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. There are Trophy Exchange races with the Macau Jockey Club, Singapore Turf Club, Japan Racing Association, Hong Kong Jockey Club and Horse Racing Ireland. Each is worth 150 Million Won so plenty of good fields have been attracted. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens contest a big prize in the opener and six of the ten race for the very first time. Unusually, we will side with one of the first timers. (4) FARCIARZ went through two trials, drawn wide both times and improving in the second of them. He gets a good gate and a top jockey, and a bold showing seems likely first-up. (10) STRONG CHARM ran 2nd on debut and while he couldn’t follow up on his next outing, he still ran a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to go close here. (7) MONSTER POWER was an on-pace 3rd in his trial in a fast time. He should be able to get on the pace here as well and can be in it a long way. (8) CATS EYE improved in the second of his two trials. It wasn’t a fast run heat so he could have potential to improve here. Returning to those with experience, (5) BEST CLONE didn’t do too much wrong on debut and can improve.

Selections(4) Farciarz (10) Strong Charm (7) Monster Power (8) Cats Eye
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only here. (1) VESPER was beaten by a couple of these when a slightly below-par 4th on her latest start on August 13th. She can get a bit far back in her races but has shown a good turn of foot and if she can get herself in a spot where she is in contention, she has solid claims here. (2) P N S SING ran 2nd in that August 13th race, her best finish to date. She was on pace that day and is well drawn to do the same here and she should be in the finish again. (9) SONGAM NURI ran 3rd in that race, her best finish to date. An apprentice keeps her weight light again and she can be competitive. As for those who didn’t go in that August race, (6) HANGANG HERO enters with a 2nd and a 5th from her latest two, both in good times and along with (7) ARCH MEMORY, is another in the hunt.

Selections(1) Vesper (2) P N S Sing (9) Songam Nuri (6) Hangang Hero
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A very ordinary set of maidens. (6) P N S THE KING is the only one of the twelve to have as much of a runner-up finish to his name and that, along with the fact he has shown some consistency is enough to make him favourite here. He comes in off a fair 5th of twelve in a good time over 1200M on August 20th and won’t need to improve too much on that here. (3) EUREKA has also put in some consistent efforts with three 4th place finishes from six starts. He steps up to this trip for the first time, should be on pace and should be looking for better than 4th this time. (8) BEST BIG BANG registered a 3rd place two starts back over this distance and that’s enough to put him in the frame here while (9) TWO ACE is yet to finish any better than 6th but does have the best time among those who have tackled the distance before. (10) SAEBYEOK BAND among others in the frame.

Selections(6) P N S The King (3) Eureka (8) Best Big Bang (9) Two Ace
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1200M) Macau Jockey Club Trophy / Allowance / KRW 150 Million

An also-ran in the Korean Derby, (7) BULBANGUL has since won back-to-back races at class 4 level, both over this distance, that latest an easy score in a fast time. That takes his record to four from seven in total and he will be a warm favourite here. He likes to settle back and run on, and he will take some beating. (4) WILD SOCKS enters having won his latest three, the latter two over 1400M at class 4 level. He has posted fast times at this distance too and from a good gate, can sit handy and finish well. (2) VICEROY is firmly established at class 3 level with three placings and a 4th from four attempts at it since winning at class 4 in February. He is up considerably in the weights from his last start 2nd but draws well to be on the pace and can be competitive again. (3) TOUGH GUY has only raced up to class 5 but exited that level with a last start over this distance in a very smart time. He is nicely suited under these conditions and can be competitive. (5) JOEUNGIRL, who has had an interrupted career but who has loads of ability, is the wildcard.

Selections(7) Bulbangul (4) Wild Socks (2) Viceroy (3) Tough Guy
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1200M) Singapore Turf Club Trophy / Allowance / KRW 150 Million

Fascinating filly and mare race with a big prize. (11) WISH ME has nine top two finishes from eleven starts and comes in having finished runner-up to Raon First in the Ttukseom Cup and to Calm Strong in the KNN Cup, both times with plenty of today’s rivals behind her. She comes back in trip, but she likes to be on pace and while the draw is a little wide, she can go close. (1) RAON THE SPURT was one of the standouts of the Filly Triple Crown trail with a 3rd and two runner-up finishes in the three races. She returned to class 3 company to win over 1800M on July 30th and while this is her first time back at a sprint distance since she was a juvenile, she had previously excelled at it. She can be on pace and is a big chance. (2) VICTOR MOON and (3) LOVELY K are both front-runners with class 2 form and should be competitive here while (13) LUCKY JAESAN is rising through the grades having won her latest two and has every chance of measuring up in this company.

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Seoul & Busan Rookie Stakes Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 28)

The first big juvenile races of the year take place at Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon, with both tracks hosting their “Rookie Stakes”. Both also have class 1 action. There are 10 races at Seoul from 1):45 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. The experience here is quite good though, especially (8) RAON THE HIGHMAN. After winning a trial, he ran out a narrow 2nd on debut over this distance on July 24th in a fast time. A repeat of that run should see him winning here. (3) LUCKY POWER has raced twice with a 3rd and a 2nd, the latter in a fast time. He draws well here and can go close. (9) GEUMA ALLURE similarly improved at start number two, running 3rd having led in the home straight on July 30th. She too can continue her development here.  As for the first timers (4) JUMONG CHEONHA won his trial in a good time and looks to have the best chance here. (7) SUPER FINISH also showed a bit of speed when runner-up in the second of his two trials and can go well first-up.

Selections(8) Raon The Highman (3) Lucky Power (9) Geuma Allure (4) Jumong Cheonha
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens. (8) NAOL SNIPER has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far, running on well both times. He looks to have more improvement in him and can be winning here. (1) DUSON CLASSIC is the main danger. She has a 2nd and a 3rd from her two appearances, the latter when she led until the final furlong coming home in a fast time on a fast track. She draws very nicely and will be in this a long way once more. There are three debut-makers and (3) NANOMETA is the clear top choice among them He won a trial in late July in fine style, sitting handy and then running away from the rest. If he brings that form to the races, he will go close. (9) LAST PITCH and (4) GWANCGCHIGI are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Naol Sniper (1) Duson Classic (3) Nanometa (9) Last Pitch
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open things on the south coast with all but two of the nine racing for the first time. The two of them showed ability on their debuts, in the same race on July 29th, and will have plenty of backers here. (2) CHOICE RUN is set to be favourite, overcoming gate eleven that day to get to a handy position and then come hoe 3rd in a fast time. He draws much better this time and can win. (8) SOLEDAD ran on well for 4th in the same race, finishing five-lengths behind Choice Run. She should have come on for the experience and can get closer today. (7) HONOR LORD caught the eye in trials. The heat wasn’t a fast one, but he crossed the line a full twelve-lengths ahead of anything else and he will have backers on debut. (5) KF OGONG and (9) VEREUDA, the latter a trial winner, are other first-timers to consider.

Selections(2) Choice Run (8) Soledad (7) Honor Lord (5) KF Ogong
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) FLASH THUNDER was an all the way winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 4th on July 23rd on his first try at this level, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and should have enough early speed to get to the lead. (9) NEMO PRINCE comes up in class having won at start number two over 1000M on July 30th when he settled back and ran on. The extra furlong can suit and under a light weight, he should be competitive. (7) MAIN OF KING is yet to win but has placed in two of his latest three outings, all at 1300M. He’ll be challenging Flash Thunder for the early lead and should be in this a long way. (2) G STAR and (1) MAESTRO are among others in contention for at least a place.

Selections(8) Flash Thunder (9) Nemo Prince (7) Main Of King (2) G Star
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start7, 8, 11, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only here. (3) WISH LUCK has made steady progress over her six starts so far culminating with a 3rd place over 1300M on July 29th. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but she looks nicely in here and today can be her day. (4) AREUMDAUN INYEON will be expected to improve off her 6th place on debut. She was favourite that day following a trial win and given the trainer/jockey combination, it will be no surprise if she is again here. (2) WONDERFUL OCEAN was a close 2nd two starts back and then an 4th on her latest on July 29th. She comes into a nice gate here and can go close. Plenty of others enter with their recent form reading relatively well and (10) PRETTY CHARM and (11) NAREUCAT look capable of placing.

Selections(3) Wish Luck (4) Areumdaun Inyeon (2) Wonderful Ocean (10) Pretty Charm
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 27)

It’s the final week of the summer schedule so the last chance to watch some evening racing at Seoul. There are 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Last chance to use this picture for 10 months

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Filly juvenile maidens here with four of them racing for the first time. (4) RANUT went through two trials, qualifying in the first of them but then doing another on August 12th (a voluntary trial so it may not be reflected in all race cards). She sat handy in this heat before pulling clear to stop the clock in 61.9 seconds, five-lengths ahead of the rest. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance first-up. (1) SEOUL GIPPEUM and (2) JAEWOO SIDAE ran 3rd and 4th with just a neck between them when they debuted over this distance on July 23rd. Both should be competing again, and the latter comes down in weight with an apprentice aboard. (9) RAON THE FLATTER ran a solid 4th on debut and can build on that here while returning to the first-timers (11) GLOBAL CHANGA won her heat, leading all the way. The draw does her no favours here but with some early luck, she can be in the finish.

Selections(4) Ranut (1) Seoul Gippeum (2) Jaewoo Sidae (9) Raon The Flatter
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(8) HIDDEN BLADE has hinted at ability across three starts to date, all at this distance and with a best of 3rd. She has run fair times too including her latest outing when handy throughout and finishing 4th. She can sit behind the speed here and run on. (10) GOLD POWER was an improved 2nd at start number two on July 31st, having led for almost the entire race. The draw isn’t ideal here but she with a little luck at the start, she can find her way to the front again and may be hard to pass. (7) DAECHEON BEAUTY wasn’t ready when she debuted last year but has been much better since returning in April, placing twice since then, both at this distance. She has the best finish of any of these and should be coming on strong at the business end of the race. (1) SARYEONI ROKEE and (5) GANGCHEOL BUDAE among others in the frame.

Selections(8) Hidden Blade (10) Gold Power (7) Daecheon Beauty (1) Saryeoni Rokee
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(5) SURE WIN has a 2nd and a 4th from two starts so far, both at 1000M and both in fast times He comes up in trip for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit and from a nice draw, she can get to the lead. It’s not a sure win but she will be a short-priced favourite. (4) MORNING FIVE returned from four months out to run a solid 4th over 1300M on July 30th. She should strip fitter for that run and looks to be the main danger here. (3) HWANGOO GANGJA comes in following a much-improved runner-up finish over this distance last month. The same apprentice jockey (although only claiming 2kg now) keeps his weight relatively low and he can be competitive again. (12) GEUMSEONG SPEED and (10) RAY BOLT among others who can challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Sure Win (4) Morning Five (3) Hwangoo Gangja (12) Geumseong Speed
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(9) RUBY CAT has been consistent with five of her six starts to date ending in 3rd to 5th place finishes. She returned on July 24th from a seven-month absence, picking up where she left off with a solid 3rd over this distance when on pace throughout and having benefitted from that run, looks ready to make the breakthrough here. This is a competitive race though and in (3) ECHO ZONE, there is another with solid claims. He came from midfield to run a good 2nd at this distance on July 30th in a fast time and won’t need to improve much on that run to win here. (2) SECRET KING is a debut-maker who went through two trials, improving in the second of them. He draws nicely here to get on pace and can place first-up. (4) STAR CRAZY and (5) GRACE LEE are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Ruby Cat (3) Echo Zone (2) Secret King (4) Star Crazy
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) KING HONOUR has beaten some of today’s rivals in each of his last three outings, coming home 4th, 2nd and 3rd, the latter two at this distance. Last time out he sat handy before running on well for 2nd, albeit well beaten by a good winner, and in doing so posted a time for this distance faster than anything else here has recorded. He should win this. Plenty of others come in with recent form reading positively though. (1) RUNNER MONSTER was 4th behind King Honor on his latest appearance on July 2nd. He draws well here and can go close again. (4) TRIPLE JOY comes up in trip after a useful 3rd over 1300M on July 31st. He has been finishing off his races well and this can suit. (3) WONDERFUL PURGE too may appreciate the additional furlong having run on well for 5th on debut at 1200M in June. (11) QUIET CHARM among others in the placing frame.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 21)

Back to normal for the Sunday racing this week with both tracks hosting daytime meetings. Seoul has 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00 while Busan has 7 from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’re siding with experience though and (4) WONPYEONG TOWN, a grizzled veteran in this company with two starts behind him, will be favourite. After running a solid 5th on debut in June, he followed up with an on-pace 3rd on July 16th in a good time. He can lead again here, and it can be third-time lucky. (10) ULTRA GALAXY was 4th in that July 16th race, making his debut. He should have come on for the experience and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will have some backers to improve. (3) SAENAE TOWN is the pick of the first-timers. He went through two trials, improving in the second of them, crossing the line as runner-up in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he has every chance of making a big impression. (11) GIANT INDY and (8) COMPLETE FORCE are other debut-makers who caught the eye in trials and may go well.

Selections(4) Wonpyeong Town (10) Ultra Galaxy (3) Saenae Town (11) Giant Indy
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. Once more we side with experience and (6) ULTRA SOCKS, who races here for the third time and came close to making all on July 23rd, only to go down to a late and narrow victory. He’ll be leading here again, and this time can go all the way. (8) DRAGON STAR is the second favourite. He won a June trial before placing 3rd on debut on July 17th over this distance, settling in midfield and working home well. He won’t need to improve much to be in the finish again. (12) HANGANG YEOUL also seems on the right trajectory. After an inauspicious debut, he improved to 4th at start number two on July 24th and despite the wide gate, should be competitive again. Among the debut-makers, (4) RAON AMERICAN posted the fastest trial time and be considered first-up. (9) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG took three goes to qualify but looked significantly better in the latest of them and is another who can be competitive.

Selections(6) Ultra Socks (8) Dragon Star (12) Hangang Yeoul (4) Raon American
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two of the twelve racing for the first time. That experienced pair will be on the top of most tickets though, especially (2) HAMPYEONG MAN. He led for much of the way around on debut over this distance on July 3rd, ultimately finishing in 2nd place in a good time, albeit well behind a good winner. He draws nicely here to lead again and should have too much. (5) HWANGHU FIGHTER was also well back behind a good winner on his debut on July 17th, but he settled midfield and ran on pleasingly enough for 4th. With some natural improvement he can get closer today. Regarding the first timers, (7) DREAM OF QUEEN showed ability in easily winning her trial in a fair time with an on-pace showing and she looks the most likely to challenge here. (6) MOTHER MOUNTAIN and (12) CUQUENAN others who can make an impact first-up.

Selections(2) Hampyeong Man (5) Hwanghu Fighter (7) Dream Of Queen (6) Mother Mountain
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Filly maidens here. (3) MONEY TAP comes in off her best finish to date when 4th over 1200M in a similar all-filly maiden on July 24th, settling back and running on. She has posted fair times at this distance and has as good a chance as any here. (6) SARANG DAMOA returned from six months out to run a promising 4th over 1400M on July 30th sitting handy throughout. She should strip fitter for that run and should be in the finish today. (7) GENTLE RULES has the fastest time among these for the distance. She got a long way back from a wide draw in that race but still ran on pleasingly enough and from a better gate today can improve. (10) BEST MAD CAM was a much-improved runner-up last time out over 1200M. The same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight nice and low and brings her into contention. (12) MAGIC MOCCASIN another in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Money Tap (6) Sarang Damoa (7) Gentle Rules (10) Best Mad Cam
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(2) PEOPLE POWER is set to be warm favourite for this maiden. She improved to 2nd on her second outing on July 24th when settling handy, dropping back and then running on over 1000M. She comes up in trip for the first time and from a good gate, there is every chance that it can suit. (6) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE races for the first time since last November. She had hinted at ability with a 4th and a 5th from wide draws in her first two starts and she looked well in her trial at the end of July. She will obviously need the run, but the opposition isn’t intimidating. (12) RADAR returns to action for the first time since March. She too showed ability, especially with her on pace runner-up finish on debut in January and she crossed the line first in a fair time in her trial last month. (4) MAGIC HILL has been knocking on the door of the minor money places and will be on pace with a chance to be in this a long way. (10) I LOVE HANSEN can improve on an inauspicious debut having previously trialed well.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

Saturday’s racing is an afternoon/evening program at Seoul with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens go here with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience for the first couple of picks though and (7) SUPREME STAR is likely to start as favourite based on her debut on July 23rd, when she led almost the entire way around, only to get caught in the closing stages and finishing 2nd in a good time. She won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (9) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK was well backed on debut having won a trial and ran fairly, sitting midfield and running on for 3rd. With some natural improvement, she will be there or thereabouts for this. Among the debut-makers, (5) SAENAE QUEEN went through two July trials, winning one in a good time. From a good draw, she is one of the likely pacesetters here. (6) COMPLETE ANGEL won her trail and is another who can make a bold showing first-up. Also notable among the first-timers is (11) RAON THE QUALITY. She finished well back behind Saenae Queen in her trial but is “full” sister to Raon The Spurt, who went close in the filly Triple Crown races this year.

Selections(7) Supreme Star (9) Haengbokan Munmak (5) Saenae Queen (6) Complete Angel
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Three-year-old maidens and (5) TANGJA will be the favourite. He has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two having been on pace both times. He’ll be on pace here as well and after a seven-week layoff and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, he should be ready to win. (1) HUIMANG GADEUK returns to action for the first time since January. Her best in three outings was a 5th but she looked well when runner-up in a trial in a quick time on July 29th. She draws very nicely here and could be intriguing. (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG has placed twice in four starts including a 3rd at his latest on July 16th in a good time over this distance. He’ll go close here. (7) MIGHTY ANN and (10) P N S THE KING are other potential placers.

Selections(5) Tangja (1) Huimang Gadeuk (9) Hangang Dolpung (7) Mighty Ann
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(10) KINGS EYE has made steady progress across three starts to date, running 3rd on his latest appearance on June 25th when settling back and running on. He comes slightly up in trip today and it might be just what he needs to make his breakthrough. (6) K N TIZWON looks the logical main danger. He comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, most recently at this distance in a good time on July 30th. An apprentice jockey keeps his weight down again and he could well be on the pace from the start. (8) DIVINE FUTURES has shown good consistency recently and has two 3rd places to his name, one at this distance. He can settle midfield and run on into some money again. (1) JILJUUI KHAN and (5) CHEONSONGI, both much improved at their respective latest starts, are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Kings Eye (6) K N Tizwon (8) Divine Futures (1) Jiljuui Khan
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Another race with another probable short-priced favourite, this time in the shape of (4) K FRENZY. He is yet to win in twelve attempts but has no fewer than seven top-three finishes and comes in after a narrow defeat at class and distance on July 16th. He can be on pace or handy in this field and may take some beating. If he does come up short again, (2) PIEONADA is the logical one to beat him. He has a 2nd and two 3rd place finishes from his latest three outings, all off them at class and distance and has consistently recorded good times. He draws well and is a danger. (3) TTEOOREUDA was a solid 4th on her first try at this class on July 23rd. She comes down slightly in the weights here and can go close again. The up in class (1) CHOEGANG JANGSAN, as well as (8) SMART POWER are among others in the money hunt.

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Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 14)

With Busan taking the weekend off, the only Sunday meeting is at Seoul where there is a day time meeting of 15 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens kick things off with five of the eight racing for the very first time. The hot favourite though will be the only one to have two starts under his saddlecloth in the shape of (1) WONPYEONG KILLAR. After running 5th on debut, he ran a good 2nd on July 2nd settling back and running on. He won’t need to improve much on that performance to win here. The greatest danger may come from a front-running debut-maker. (3) BIG SMART went through three trials, improving each time and crossed the line first in the latest of those when on pace throughout. The time wasn’t fast but she has had a month for potential improvement and could put in a bold showing. (7) TAKE MUSIC also showed towards the head of the field in her trial and similarly may go well here. The other experienced pair of (6) STARLET and (5) TOHO SKY are others to consider.

Selections(1) Wonpyeong Killar (3) Big Smart (7) Take Music (6) Starlet
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 57

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It would be surprising if (3) DONGTEUJA WAY doesn’t have a win in him sooner rather than later. He has performed fairly in his two starts so far recording a time for this distance faster than anything else in the race when 5th on July 3rd. He has trialed since then, stopping the clock in a good time and from a good draw should be on pace and can win. (7) YEONHUI SARANG has been improving in recent outings with a 4th place at this distance on July 16th her best so far. She’ll be on or close to the pace here and can go even closer. (1) NB JEONSA has a 3rd place to his name over this distance and from a great draw should be in the mix again. (8) POSA POSA and (4) STAR PRINCESS are others capable of filling out the minors.

Selections(3) Dongteuja Way (7) Yeonhui Sarang (1) NB Jeonsa (8) Posa Posa
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky race. (5) BLACK BEOMI just about gets the nod following her much-improved 2nd place over this distance on June 4th when overcoming a wide draw to sit handy and run on. Without an apprentice claim today, she comes up 3kg in the weights but she finds herself with a better draw and she can win. (1) MY GONGJU is another who improved on his latest appearance, running a goof 3rd over this distance in a fair time on June 12th. He has tended to get too far back in his races so far and the inside gate should help today. (7) GUK HYANG has been consistently close across her eleven starts and has posted some decent times. She will settle back and can run into some money. (2) HANGANG HERO and (9) BANGTAN YEOGEOL among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Black Beomi (1) My Gongju (7) Guk Hyang (2) Hangang Hero
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) JEONGMUN PAPAGO is set to be the hot favourite here. Following an inauspicious debut, he has finished 3rd and 2nd in two subsequent starts, that 2nd coming over this distance last time out on July 2nd when handy all the way and beaten by a good winner. His time that day was faster than anything else in this race has registered for the distance and he should break through here. (6) VICTORY SAM is two starts into a comeback following almost a year out. She’s been on pace in both of them and stayed on fairly for 4th over 1300M on July 2nd. She should be at peak fitness for this, can lead again and be in it a long way. (8) WONDERFUL MUSKET returned from fifteen months out to run a creditable 3rd over this distance on July 3rd. She should be fitter for that run and can go close. (5) DEVIL K and (2) JAKDUKONG others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Jeongmun Papago (6) Victory Sam (8) Wonderful Musket (5) Devil K
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another race with a probable short-priced favourite. (4) RESERVED JOHN has run well across her five starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1300M on July 10th. She has been finishing off her races well and the additional trip today can suit. The most experienced horse in the race is (8) BITNANEUN JILJU and while that is a somewhat dubious honour at class 6, he has run well enough at this distance including his last start 4th. A similar run here will see him closer. There isn’t much early speed here so (3) VINCERO KING should be able to get to the lead from a good draw. He is up in weight from his 3rd place over 1200M on July 9th but he should be competitive here. (2) HANI and (5) BLOW MIND are others who can make a bid for the minors.

Selections(4) Reserved John (8) Bitnaneun Jilju (3) Vincero King (2) Hani
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) LAST PUNCH has been ultra-consistent across her eight starts so far with her latest outing producing her best finish when 2nd 1200M, coming from well off the pace. She has run well at this distance before and from a good gate, can this time sit on or close to the pace and then run on. Today can be her day. The probable favourite is (9) JAY PHOENIX. He is yet to finish any worse than 3rd in three starts and he steps up to this distance for the first time having run 2nd on his first try at class 5 over 1200M on June 11th. He should be able to overcome the wide gate to get on pace and he has every chance. (8) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (3) SMART BYEOL came home 3rd and 5th when they raced each other at class and distance on July 3rd and both can be aiming to improve here. (1) FIRST ROAD, the only one in the field to have won at the distance, is another in the placing frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 13)

After a week off, racing returns to Seoul on Saturday with an 10-race afternoon and evening card running from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens kick things off. (7) ARGO GONGJU is the only one of these who has raced twice before and that’s probably enough to send her off as favourite. She improved to 3rd at the second time of asking on July 23rd when she sat midfield and ran on adequately enough and she won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. Regarding adequate, (6) CRAZY LOVE improved significantly out of her trials to run 6th of nine on a fair time on debut. She should have benefited from that run and can make progress here. There are two debut makers here and (3) WOLF PLAY showed on pace in his trial. He is well drawn to do the same here and can be in this a long way. (8) DREAM SKY and (2) LEGAL HIGH are others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Argo Gongju (6) Crazy Love (3) Wolf Play (8) Dream Sky
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens with three of the nine racing for the first time. The favourite will be (9) RAON FOREST, who beat two of these on his way to a runner-up finish on debut on July 9th, when he settled midfield and ran on well in a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (5) COMPLETE LEVEL looks the best of the first-timers. He went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them, running on pace throughout and crossing the line in front. If he can bring that form to the races, then he won’t be far away. (1) GEUMBITMA was 4th on debut on the same race as Raon Forest. Drawn nicely on the inside, he can get closer today. (8) THUNDER BRAVO and (2) ROCK IMPACT others who can build on their debut showings.

Selections(9) Raon Forest (5) Complete Level (1) Geumbitma (8) Thunder Bravo
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. Apprentice jockey O Su-cheol has had quite the start to his career with his sixteen rides to date yielding four winners already. A fifth isn’t impossible here as (3) LUCKY INDY has a runner-up finish to her name over this trip in a fast time and with the 4kg claim, looks very nicely in. She draws well to get on or close to the speed and has every chance. (8) BEST FALCON is probably the main danger. She has shown steady improvement across four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on July 24th when on pace throughout. She too should be on the early speed and will be in this a long way. (1) GEUMA WITTY comes back in trip after a decent 3rd place over 1300M on July 3rd, her best finish so far, and from the inside gate can match or better today. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC and (4) SWEET KAKAO others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Lucky Indy (8) Best Falcon (1) Geuma Witty (9) Wonderful Music
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maiden fillies. (4) VESPER has a runner-up finish to her name over this distance, which she achieved two starts back at the end of May when settling right at the rear of the field and then running on well. She followed that up with a 5th place over 1300M and in this company, so long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, can win. (8) TANSAN has hinted at ability over three starts so far. She too has tended to find herself a bit far back, but she runs on well and can be a danger late on here. (6) SPEAR QUEEN ran a much-improved 2nd at this distance on July 9th, settling midfield and finishing strongly. A similar run will put her very close here. (5) P N S SING and (3) WONDER RACER others to consider.

Selections(4) Vesper (8) Tansan (6) Spear Queen (5) P N S Sing
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(3) GEONGONILCHEOK is yet to finish in the first-two but has no fewer than five top-five finishes to his name from seven starts, including a 3rd place over this trip. He has a good start on him and draws well to get to the lead today, giving himself every chance of being in this a very long way. (7) CLAIR POWER is a big danger. He is yet to finish outside the top-five in four attempts and has a 3rd place at this distance in a good time on his record. Compared with most rivals here, he has good early speed, as well as a strong finish, and could well start as favourite. (1) BOSS BABY has performed fairly over seven starts so far with his latest 5th over 1200M on July 17th his best. That was a decent showing and from the inside gate, he should be looking to improve on that here. (2) TIZ FIGHTING and (4) QUIET CHARM others who can enter the calculations.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

It’s daytime racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and a short 5-race card at Busan from 12:20 to 16:10. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with all but three racing for the first time. Those three all raced well though on their respective debuts and will be at the top of the market. (3) SURE WIN will be hot favourite. Having won a trial in early June, she then ran 2nd on debut on June 25th, racing on-pace throughout and registering a good time. A repeat of that performance will make her very hard to beat. The name does sound like tempting fate though so if you want to take on the favourite, (4) KWAEHYANG is the logical choice. He was also close to the speed on debut on June 25th (in a different race), coming home 4th on a decent time. He should have come on for that and be a danger here. (9) NAVY CHROME was 4th behind Sure Win on debut and can also improve here. As for the first timers, (8) SUN DRAGON ran the fastest time in trials and can be considered while (5) RAON THE COBRA ran 2nd in his trial in a fair time and is sure to get plenty of attention.

Selections(3) Sure Win (4) Kwaehyang (9) Navy Chrome (8) Sun Dragon
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden with ten fillies and one gelding. (4) RAY BOLT comes in off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two, where she has settled just behind the early speed and then run on. She draws well to so similar today and she could have enough about her to win this. (7) GOLD POWER showed enough on debut to put her among the leading contenders here. She led for much of the way around at this distance on June 25th, ultimately finishing 5th but posting a decent time. She should have improved for that run and may even start as favourite. (10) ZELOS has shown signs in his latest two starts of finally figuring things out with a 2nd and 3rd, both at this distance. He has settled back and ran on both times so the wide draw isn’t of concern, and he can maintain his positive run of form. (2) MONEY STONE and (9) ARCH MEMORY others who can place.

Selections(4) Ray Bolt (7) Gold Power (10) Zelos (2) Money Stone
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(2) GOLDEN HONOR made a good impression on debut on April 9th when he finished 2nd over this distance. It’s taken a while for him to get back to the track, but he looks nicely in here and from a great draw, looks to be the one to beat. (3) PERFECT TIME has the fastest time for this distance among those who have tackled it before. That was recorded when she finished 2nd two starts back on June 5th when she settled back and ran on. Going on that run rather than her latest, she has a chance here. (8) NAEGILUI BYEOL stepped up to this trip on June 26th and ran an improved 3rd. He is another who can sit midfield early and then run on. (6) TRIPLE JOY has hinted at ability across three starts so far and along with (10) PERMISSION TO WIN is another in the frame.

Selections(2) Golden Honor (3) Perfect Time (8) Naegilui Byeol (6) Triple Joy
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time and unusually, we are not going to side with experience this time. That’s due to (3) GEUMA PASSIONATE, who showed enough over the course of two trials to suggest he can win first-up. He led in the latest of those and while Group winner Mr. Afleet did cruise past him in the latter stages, there don’t appear many candidates among this lot to do that. He can lead all the way. If you prefer to stick with experience, (11) BAEDARI GANGHO could be the one. He comes in off a good 2nd place on June 17th when he overcame the widest gate. That suggests that the same wide draw won’t be an issue and he can work home strong again. (8) TEUKGEUP CAMP was a significant improver last start on June 26th when he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd over this distance. He can match that here. The form drops off a bit after that but (7) SIMPLE KALIX will have backers while (1) LOUD COLOR is another who can improve.

Selections(3) Geuma Passionate (11) Baedari Gangho (8) Teukgeup Camp (7) Simple Kalix
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race for fillies and mares. (1) HWASUBOON perhaps has the edge. She was a winner at class 6 level over this distance three starts back and while he didn’t go well over 1300M on her first try at this level in March, she was a decent 5th on her latest appearance back over this trip on June 25th. The draw means she may get a soft run to the lead and that could make the difference. (3) MUSTANG CHARM is still a maiden but comes up in class with two runner-up finishes from her latest three. She comes down in the weights and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (10) HIGH RUNNER beat Mustang Charm on her way to victory over this distance at class 6 level in June. She too can measure up in this company and can be considered. (5) GEOLJAK WOMAN and (11) HWANGGEUM CHEONJI both need their latest starts overlooked but otherwise have form that holds up in this company.

Selections(1) Hwasuboon (3) Mustang Charm (10) High Runner (5) Geoljak Woman
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) QUEEN ALLIE may be yet to break through, but she comes up in class anyway following two runner-up finishes from three starts. At her latest, she overcame gate eleven to sit midfield and then run on well, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She comes down in weight here, draws a good gate and she can win. (7) TWO OF US comes up in class too, in her case following a maiden win at start number four over 1200M on June 26th.  She is an on-pace galloper who can be expected to lead here and to be in this a long way. (9) BEST WIND enters off two very solid class and distance performances, finishing 2nd to Named in June and then on July 10th, beating a couple of today’s rivals when an on-pace 4th. She remains nicely weighted and surely goes close. (5) SPICE INDIE and (3) JEONGDEUN-RO are others in the hunt.

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