Six days into the 16th Asian Games, the Republic of Korea (ROK) has been making a flying start in Guangzhou, garnering more than 20 gold medals.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the ROK stands second in the medal table behind host China. Japan is in third place.

The ROK's initial aim was to win more than 65 gold medals to claim a fourth-straight second place at the Asiad, ahead of its rival Japan. But the target now seems too small.

Until last week, many expected Japan would outrun the ROK as its traditional gold mines, such as swimming and judo, are scheduled for the early stage of the games. The ROK was expected to get into full swing in the latter stage through its dominance in taekwondo and archery.

But while Japan managed to claim seven gold medals in judo, the ROK, rather surprisingly, won six gold medals. The biggest surprise came from the shooting event. Of the 24 gold medals the ROK has won so far, 10 have come from shooting events.

- The Korea Herald