KOREAN NET

Forward Lee Chongmin on Feb. 4 eyes a shot on goal against China in a Group A match of men's ice hockey at the Winter Asian Games in Harbin, China, at Harbin Ice Hockey Arena. (Yonhap News)

By Charles Audouin

The country's national ice hockey teams have won their opening matches at the Winter Asian Games in Harbin, China.

For the men, Korea on Feb. 4 rallied to beat the host nation, 6-5, in overtime in a Group A game at Harbin Ice Hockey Arena.

Down 4-1 with 15 minutes left in the second period, Korea came back to tie the score, 5-5, thanks to forward Lee Chongmin's goal with five minutes before the end of regulation. In overtime, captain Kim Sangwook scored with just 45 seconds left to win it.

The team's second group game is versus Taiwan on Feb. 5.

The national women's team routed Hong Kong, 8-0, at Harbin Sports University Student Ice Rink in their Group B opener.

Placing second in its group after Kazakhstan with three points and a goal difference of plus eight, Korea will aim for its second win against Thailand on Feb. 6.

Korea's national team at this Winter Asiad comprises 148 athletes and 74 coaches and staff.

Lee and curler Kim Eun-ji will carry the national flag at the opening ceremony on Feb. 7 at Harbin International Convention and Exhibition Sports Center.

caudouin@korea.kr