"Denis Ten was a great athlete and a huge inspiration to everyone," Kim, the 2010 Olympic champion, wrote in her English message. "It is such a tragedy, and (I'm) saddened to lose a great and passionate skater like him. I am sorry for your loss and express my deepest condolences to the deceased."

Another female skater, Choi Da-bin, also paid her condolences on Instagram. The 2017 Asian Winter Games gold medalist wrote in

English: "I can't believe this news. When I was in Kazakhstan, you really cared about me and cheered me up. I miss you... Rest in peace."

Lee June-hyoung, a three-time national champion in the men's singles, uploaded a picture he took with Ten and wrote on his social media page: "I am happy to have spent time with you. Rest in peace." (Yonhap)