Kim Ye-ji, a South Korean Olympic sharpshooter, made waves across the internet after clinching silver in the women’s 10-metre air pistol at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her composed demeanor and unique sense of style caught the attention of many, leading to her being hailed as the breakout style star of the Games. Kim, sporting a black South Korea uniform, a baseball hat, and wire-rimmed shooting glasses, stood out among the competitors at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.
A viral video of Kim, taken at the Baku World Cup in May, showcased her exceptional shooting skills and calm demeanor, further solidifying her status as a rising star. Despite some confusion regarding the context of the footage, social media platforms were abuzz with discussions about Kim’s impressive performance and striking appearance in Paris. The video garnered millions of views and sparked discussions about her unique aura and undeniable talent.
Celebrities like Elon Musk joined the conversation, suggesting that Kim should be cast in an action movie due to her effortless coolness and sharpshooting abilities. Fan art, edits set to K-pop music, and memes celebrating Kim’s newfound fame flooded the internet, cementing her status as a social media sensation. With her sights set on winning gold, Kim confidently declared her intention to secure the top spot in her upcoming events at the Paris Olympics.
Known for her dominance in the 25-metre pistol event, Kim’s fans eagerly awaited her performances in the preliminaries and finals later in the week. Despite her fierce competitive spirit, Kim also expressed her excitement at the prospect of speaking to her five-year-old daughter after the Games. Delighting in her newfound celebrity status, Kim jokingly acknowledged her rise to fame in the online sphere, embracing the attention and support from her fans around the world.
South Korea has a rich legacy in Olympic sports, particularly in archery and taekwondo. The country’s success in shooting, with a total of nine gold medals since 1992, highlights its prowess in various disciplines. Male athletes who medal at the Olympics are granted exemptions from military service, a privilege not extended to female athletes. Kim’s achievements on the world stage serve as a testament to South Korea’s sporting excellence and the dedication of its athletes to excel at the highest levels of competition.
