Kim Yeji has captured the world’s attention with her impressive performance at the Paris Olympics. The 31-year-old South Korean sharpshooter has won medals and gained a massive online following, becoming an internet sensation.

Breaking Records and Winning Hearts

Kim Yeji has quickly become the internet’s latest darling. Known for her cool demeanour and exceptional skills, she has made headlines by casually breaking world records in competitive shooting. Her distinctive style, including her cap and futuristic shooting glasses, has drawn comparisons to street fashion, making her stand out even more.

At the Paris Olympics, Kim won a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol event, while her 19-year-old teammate, Oh Ye Jin, took the gold. The two athletes have proven to be a formidable duo, showcasing South Korea’s strength in the sport.

Viral Video and Social Media Fame

Kim’s rise to internet fame was sparked by a viral video of her competing in Azerbaijan in May. The video, shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), gained over 7 million views in just a few days. It features Kim with a backward cap over her blunt bob haircut and her steely gaze focused on the target through her shooting glasses. This eyewear, used by athletes to improve concentration, adds a sci-fi touch to her already captivating presence.

In the video, Kim is seen setting a new world record with minimal reaction, flipping up her glasses’ lens to stare directly at the camera before glancing at the screen to confirm her achievement. Her calm and confident demeanour at this moment won her many new fans and admirers online.

Stylish Competitor                  

Images from Kim’s performance in Paris also circulated widely on social media. Her unflinching expression, black Fila jacket, Sauer shooting shoes, and a stuffed toy elephant hanging from her pocket were all points of discussion among her fans. Her style and presence have been praised, adding to her allure as a shooting star with undeniable charisma.

One particular photo, showing Kim leaning back with one hand on her hip and the other holding a pistol, became especially popular. It was shared by the X account Women Posting W’s with the caption “the most aura I have ever seen in an image,” receiving over 300,000 likes.

The internet has applauded Kim’s “main character energy,” with posts gathering hundreds of thousands of likes. Some even called her “mother,” a term of endearment and admiration in online culture. Elon Musk, the owner of the platform, commented that Kim “should be cast in an action movie,” highlighting her strong and captivating presence.

As a first-time Olympian, Kim Yeji is set to compete in the qualifying round of the 25-meter pistol event on Friday. Her performance is eagerly anticipated by her fans and followers worldwide, who are keen to see what she will achieve next.

A Proud Moment for South Korea

Kim and her teammate Oh Ye Jin’s success reflects South Korea’s consistent excellence in shooting. The country has won medals in shooting events at every Summer Olympic Games since 2000. Kim and Oh, who are roommates in the Olympic Village, have formed a close bond. Kim describes Oh as a sister and expresses immense pride in their achievements together.

“I always want to care for her and be there for her. So when she won the gold medal, I was extra happy,” Kim said in an interview. “I do not view her as my rival. This is a big stage, the Olympics, and we won the gold and silver. When we won these medals, we were so proud we are Koreans.                     

Kim Yeji’s journey and accomplishments have inspired many young athletes and fans around the world. Her unique style and calm under pressure have made her a role model, demonstrating that skill and personality can go hand in hand in sports.

Her story is a testament to the hard work and dedication required to excel at the highest level. As she continues to compete and set new records, Kim Yeji is sure to remain a beloved figure both online and in the world of sports.

Kim Yeji has become more than just a champion in shooting; she has become an icon. Her achievements in the Paris Olympics and the viral video of her record-breaking performance have solidified her status as a global sensation. With her unwavering focus and stylish presence, Kim continues to capture the hearts of fans and inspire future generations of athletes.