UPDATED: USA Denies Entry to World Cup Climbers
Korean climbers and coaches have been denied entry days before the Salt Lake City World Cup. They had originally been given permission to enter the USA
Renowned Korean climber Lee Dohyun revealed that his ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which assesses eligibility for travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, has been cancelled. He was set to compete at this weekend’s Salt Lake City World Cup. Dohyun stated that he had initially received approval from the USA to travel, but for reasons undisclosed, his ESTA, along with those of other team members, has now been cancelled.
UPDATE May 24: Dohyun was ultimately allowed to travel to the USA to compete at the last minute. He deleted his social media posts about being denied. We don’t know the details but will update once we learn more.
On social media, he said: “My ESTA was approved on April 28, but it was suddenly denied just two days before my flight — for reasons I still don’t know. Not only me, but the Korean male athletes and our coach were all denied ESTA as well. We’ve done everything we can to get emergency visas, but unfortunately, it won’t be possible before the competition begins.”
This is the first we’ve heard of a climber not being allowed to travel to the USA for the upcoming World Cup. For more information on the event visit here.
