S.Korean President encourages athletes to win medals in Beijing Olympics

SEOUL, April 30 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Lee Myung-bak on Wednesday encouraged South Korean athletes to do their best at the Beijing Olympics in August.

"South Korea has grown into a global sports power, frequently giving hopes to the people in need. The people feel particularly depressed this year due to the economic difficulties. Good results from the Olympics would greatly elevate their morale," Lee said when visiting the Korea National Training Center in Taeneung, northern Seoul.

"I came here to give words of encouragement to you national players, with the opening of the Olympics exactly 100 days away. The color of the medal may not be important. More important is doing your best," said the President.

Lee Elisa, secretary general of the Korea National Training Center, told Lee that South Korea is expected to rank among the top 10 in the medal standings of the Beijing Olympics by winning around 10 golds.