The XXI Vancouver Winter Olympics captured the hearts and minds of people across the world. Korea, in particular, performed superbly in sports typically dominated by advanced countries; for instance, gold medals were won not only in short track speed skating, a sport which Koreans traditionally excel in, but also in women’s figure skating and men and women’s speed skating in the 500m and also men’s 10,000m events. As a result, Korea came in fifth place overall in the Winter Games, commanding the status of a national powerhouse. Korea's success as the world's fastest country in industrialization and democratization was intertwined with the Olympic victories, together encouraging a strong sense of national pride. The year 2010 is of particular historical significance to Koreans as it marks 1) the centennial year since the signing of the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty, 2) the 60th anniversary since the outbreak of the Korean War and 3) 50 years since the April Revolution. In this vein, Korea's Olympic performance is expected to act as a catalyst for the adoption of a series of moves that aim to advance national status.