In Korea, the year 2014 will be known as "the Year of the Horse." More specifically, 2014 is a blue horse year. What is a blue horse? Some say that the blue horse can be interpreted as the unicorn. Yes, that's right. The year 2014 is the unicorn year in Korea. Cultural facts aside, there will be three major sporting events going on in the upcoming year. They are the following:
Sochi Winter Olympics
February 7 - February 23 (official dates)
My senses tell me that Korean athletes will do pretty well during the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Why? In 2010, Korea finished fifth overall with six golds, six silvers, and two bronzes, which was amazing. With Kim Yuna leading the way, it's not impossible to do the same or better. If not, better luck next time when the Winter Olympics takes place in Pyeongchang, South Korea in 2018.
There is one concern, however. Korean athletes should be careful pronouncing the words "game" and "home" while in Russia, so that the Russian government doesn't put them in prison for thinking that the words were "gay" and "homo." After all, you'd never know what will happen in Russia. Meanwhile, I expect Dennis Rodman to keep going in and out of North Korea as if he's visiting his parents. Who knows? He may even go after the Nobel Peace Prize.
Brazil World Cup
June 12 - July 13 (official dates)
The World Cup is probably the most anticipated event for many people, certainly for Koreans even though the Asian Games will be held in Korea. Many Korean soccer fans (excuse me, football fans) are thrilled to be on Group H with Algeria, Belgium, and Russia. They all have higher FIFA rankings than South Korea does. But, at least, the Korean team doesn't have to face the potential winners like Brazil, Germany, Spain, Argentina, and Italy. I expect the Korean team to barely reach the Round of 16 only to lose to Germany by a landslide.
Incheon Asian Games
September 19 - October 4 (official dates)
The 2014 Asian Games will be the last big sporting event of the year 2014. Also known as the Asiad, the main interest will be to see who finishes second, Korea or Japan. China will clearly take the first place once again like in 2010.
