South Korea began the defence of their title with two victories as women's action at the Pacific-Asia Curling Championships began ©WCF

South Korea began the defence of their title with two victories as women's action at the Pacific-Asia Curling Championships in Erina today.

The reigning champions were in impressive form as they beat Japan and New Zealand at the Erina Ice Arena in the Australian city. 

They began with a hard-fought 8-5 success against Japan before they thrashed New Zealand 10-1.

South Korea were the only side to win two matches today and they lead the standings after the opening day of the women's event.

China are second after they overcame Australia 9-3 in the evening session.

Defending champions Japan, hosts Australia and South Korea share the lead in the men's tournament as they have all claimed three victories from their first three contests.

Japan swept aside Kazakhstan 8-3 and then produced a superb display in a 19-1 mauling of Qatar.

China's men have won their opening two matches of the competition ©WCF
China's men have won their opening two matches of the competition ©WCF

Australia also hammered Qatar, emerging with an 18-2 triumph, while their other victory on day two came virtue of a 9-3 win against Oceanian rivals New Zealand.

South Korea beat New Zealand 8-5 and Chinese Taipei 9-6 to join Australia and Japan at the summit of the standings.

"The ice was a bit tricky and we were playing easier shots than them," Australian skip Hugh Millikin said following the encounter with New Zealand.

"They played the finesse shots and they got a bit unlucky when they over bent. 

"Going three and zero is a good start. 

"Our objective is to get to the play-offs and then win one of two games to get to the worlds - so we’re confident."

Action in both the men's and women's events is due to continue tomorrow.