From Disqualification Scare to National Record: Korean Sprinters' Journey to Asian Games Bronze

Track stars Bivessa Daniel Gasama and Namadi Joel Jin are set to share their Asian Games experience on MBC's "Made in Korea" special. The upcoming episode of "Radio Star," airing on the 21st, will feature five Korean medalists discussing their path to glory and life beyond the track.

Gasama and Jin, who clinched bronze in the men's 4x400m relay at the 2026 Aichi Nagoya Asian Games, nearly saw their dreams dashed before the final. Running the fourth and second legs respectively, they faced a disqualification scare in the prelims. Gasama explained they were initially ruled out for a lane violation during the first baton exchange.

Jin, convinced the error didn't warrant disqualification, urged their coach to appeal. The team's quick action paid off, with officials dramatically reversing the decision. Jin recalled the elation, comparing it to winning gold. However, their challenges weren't over. Come finals day, torrential rain and an unfavorable lane one assignment threatened their medal hopes. Jin described the treacherous conditions, with reflections off the wet track hampering visibility and nearly causing a slip during the handoff.

Gasama, typically a central lane runner, found himself on the inside track. He boldly claimed, "If we'd been in lane six, gold would've been ours." The duo relived their nail-biting final through video footage, celebrating their hard-earned podium finish.

The show will also spotlight the athletes' unique bond. Gasama revealed how seeing Jin and teammates succeed internationally motivated his comeback from injury. He even set his phone background to a photo of the team with the Korean flag, fueling his rehabilitation. Jin, in turn, shared that Gasama has been his role model since high school, adding a heartwarming dimension to their story.

For Jin, the appearance marks a reunion with host Kim Gook-jin after 12 years. Once small enough to be cradled by Kim on the show "Bungeoppang," Jin returns as a towering 6'1" Olympian. He'll present Kim with a special gift – drawings created during his training downtime.

Gasama opened up about his romantic life, admitting he's never had a girlfriend. He shared a story of a high school crush who reached out after his Asian Games success, hinting at a potential budding romance. Connecting this to his injury comeback story, Gasama sent a heartfelt message to his long-time crush.

Catch these inspiring stories and more on MBC's "Radio Star," Wednesday at 10:30 PM.