FIBA.basketball
FIBA
Behind the Whistle: Kyounghwan Lee
Every time a whistle blows, there is a person behind it with their own unique story. 


Lee Kyounghwan

 

What is the most memorable experience you have ever had related to basketball officiating?
Officiating the 2022 U17 World Cup in Spain was an unforgettable milestone as my first World Cup experience. The intense atmosphere taught me the vital importance of crew communication and teamwork under pressure.

Name one referee you have learned a lot from.
Senior colleagues Intae Hwang and Jesse Thompson influenced me by emphasizing the need for constant learning and professionalism. Their advice continues to shape my approach to the game every time I step on the floor.

How do you recharge after a particularly tough game?
After a tough assignment, I use light exercise and music to release physical tension. I take the time to review the video to extract learning points, which helps me move on and prepare for the next challenge.

What is your process for objective self-critique and moving forward after a challenging game?
I begin with an honest self-evaluation and then seek out feedback from instructors to get a different perspective on my performance. This mindset ensures that I learn from my mistakes rather than just dwell on them.

What is your greatest strength in officiating?
I consider my main strengths to be my open communication, composure, and ability to control the game. Moving forward, I am working on my English proficiency and deepening my understanding of the officiating system.