Abstract
South Korea has hosted numerous sporting mega-events and achieved substantial international sport success in recent decades. However, many concerns remain with respect to its policies governing sport. In recognition of such concerns, the South Korean government has initiated a program to assist elite athletes in transitioning to roles as international sport administrators, coaches, and scholars. One aspect of this program involves a partnership between a South Korean governmental organization and a U.S. university. The purpose of the current study was to examine the program’s successes and challenges. The current study has implications for sports policymakers, educators, professionals and a variety of audiences with an interest in launching, developing, and systemizing similar international partnerships. This insight can be used to increase retention of individuals in similar programs, as well as to enhance the quality of programs that support athletes’ transition to life after retirement from elite sport.