Lim and Kwon scored 64.69 points in the rhythm dance — 34.28 in technical elements and 30.41 in program components — in competition held Feb. 10 South Korea time.
Well below their personal best of 76.02, they placed 22nd among 23 teams. Only the top 20 advanced to the free dance.
It was their lowest score since debuting on the senior circuit in the 2022-23 season. They missed the cutoff by 0.29 points behind Sofia Val and Asaf Kazimov of Spain, who finished 20th.
A mistake in the sequential twizzles proved costly when Kwon’s steps tangled and the rotation was not completed, leading to deductions. In the kiss-and-cry, Kwon bowed his head in visible disappointment after the score posted.
Afterward in the mixed zone, Lim said, “It’s disappointing because there was a mistake, but overall I was happy,” adding, “Today the energy came through well, and our timing in the choreography was good, so I’m satisfied.”
Describing the moments after the error, Lim said they made eye contact and told each other, “We can do it — let’s do the next elements better,” adding that he wanted to tell Kwon it was OK. “Our goal was to qualify for the Olympics, and I’m grateful just to have been on this stage,” Lim said. “Just the fact that we performed at the Olympics is overwhelming.”
Kwon, who had cold symptoms ahead of the Games, said nerves also may have played a role. “The movements got out of sync. Honestly, I’m really disappointed,” he said, adding, “After the mistake, I did my best in the remaining sections.”
Though they did not reach the free dance, both skaters said the experience mattered. “It was meaningful to perform in front of so many spectators,” Lim said. “I hope our emotions reached the fans.” Kwon said, “I was nervous, but the atmosphere was very impressive, and I tried to enjoy the moments I had left.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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