A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Choi Gabi, Compiled by Choi Nunsol
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Lee Jong-hee
As the heat of summer intensifies, aquatic sports such as swimming, water polo, and diving gain popularity. Among these, synchronized swimming—now officially termed Artistic Swimming by the International Swimming Federation (FINA)—stands out as a captivating fusion of flexibility and harmony. This artistic sport, which beautifully melds swimming, dance, music, and gymnastics, sees athletes performing in water as a cohesive unit. Lee Jong-hee, a pioneer in synchronized swimming in South Korea, shares her vivid journey from being a national athlete to a coach and eventually settling in the United States.
Introduction
“Hello, Coach Lee Jong-hee. It's a pleasure to connect with you for our readers at Mom & I. Could you please introduce yourself?”
“It’s a pleasure to meet the readers of Mom & I. Although I've been involved in the uncommon sport of synchronized swimming for a long time, like many of you, I’ve settled in America and lead a day-to-day life as a mother of two.”
Explaining Artistic Swimming
“That’s correct. In Korea, it’s called aquatic ballet. Given that FINA recently officially named it Artistic Swimming, it truly embodies artistic beauty. It requires not only exceptional swimming skills but also an understanding of dance, music, and gymnastics.”
Journey as a National Athlete and Coach
“I came into the national team as a freshman in the 90s. My last competition as an athlete was at the Japan Open, after which I transitioned to a coaching role. I even participated in the 1996 Atlanta Olympic trials as a coach.”
The Path to Discovering Synchro
“I had no prior knowledge of synchronized swimming. Originally a dancer, I learned to swim at the age of 12. My journey began when friends introduced me to the first lessons at the Jongno YMCA swimming pool. The second lesson at Ewha Womans University truly marked the start of my synchro life.”
Photo: Coach Lee Jong-hee with her national teammates, fourth from left.
Photo: Coach Lee poses with medal-winning athletes.
Photo: Current Ridgewood YWCA team members, all protégés of Coach Lee.
Initial Experience
“Interest is crucial for this unique field. I recall merely watching my friends at Ewha Womans University as I was not familiar with deeper waters. My first instructor rekindled my passion and skill for it. In high school, despite moments of exhaustion, university life with a full scholarship allowed me to wholly enjoy synchro.”
The Allure of Synchro
“Synchro's appeal lies in its orchestral harmony. Although solos and duets are beautiful, team performances of eight members showcase its essence as they synchronize patterns with music. It’s also the only summer Olympic sport allowing makeup, making it uniquely grandiose.”
Notable Career Moments
“Entering university as part of the national team, my contemporaries and I were essentially South Korea’s first generation in synchro. We learned rigorously, often traveling abroad for training due to a lack of domestic expertise, achieving commendable success like second place in the French Open duet.”
Move to the United States
“In 1999, I relocated to New York with my husband. It was a refreshing change from the rigorous Korean lifestyle. In America, I noticed a stark contrast in how sports are less competitive and more recreational.”
Life in America
“After moving, I embraced life as a full-time mother, volunteering and actively participating in community activities. In 2015, I was contacted by a former colleague coaching synchro in New Jersey. Now, I lead the Ridgewood YWCA team, coaching children aged 8 to 18.”
Photo: Coach Lee performing underwater during her athletic career.
Photo: The Lee family.
Recommendations for Aspiring Synchro Enthusiasts
“Our team accepts children aged 8 and above who can swim three strokes at level four proficiency. While exceptional swimming isn’t mandatory, sound basics are essential. Competitions are active, with opportunities leading up to the Junior Olympics. I advise not engaging solely for resume building; genuine passion fosters unique traits and skills.”
Word to Fellow Parents
“My son played tennis, and my daughter swims. As a coach and a mother, perseverance in sports is key for children. The critical period often comes around age 15; maintaining patience during this time is crucial.”
Personal Reflections
“Chasing medals and accolades isn’t the essence; it's about enjoying the process and constantly striving. Reigniting coaching in the U.S. at YWCA, a venture that began with humble resources, attests to our team's remarkable evolution. We annually host the ‘Synchro Stars Show’ for public engagement and even organize a Summer Camp in August. I hope to see more Korean-American children embrace this sport joyfully.”
Synchro’s Place in Life
“Synchro is my life. Without it, raising children or presenting myself in America might have been daunting. Performing a Deck Work before a vast audience ends all fears. I assure my students—after this, the pool is yours. I have lived with such tenacity and can indeed claim synchro as my life.”
