Born: August 2, 1979 (Pyongyang)
Biography:
Kye Sun-hui, a renowned North Korean judoka, was born on August 2, 1979, in Pyongyang. From a young age, Kye displayed exceptional talent and determination which would propel her to become one of the most accomplished judokas in Olympic history.
At the age of 16, Kye made her mark on the judo world by winning a gold medal in the extra-lightweight (-48kg) category at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. This remarkable achievement made her the youngest judoka ever to claim an Olympic title. Kye’s victory was even more impressive considering that she had entered the Games through the wild card system, demonstrating her potential and surprising many in the judo community.
Four years later, at the Sydney Olympics in 2000, Kye once again showcased her remarkable skills by securing a bronze medal in the 48kg half-lightweight category. This medal further solidified her position as one of the top judokas of her time.
In 2004, Kye continued to excel on the international stage, earning a silver medal in the 57kg category at the Athens Olympics. Her consistency in delivering exceptional performances at the Olympic Games displayed her mastery of different weight divisions and solidified her status as a versatile and accomplished judoka.
Kye’s success was not limited to the Olympic stage. She also dominated at the World Championships, securing the gold medal in the 52kg category in 2001 and the gold medal in the 57kg category in 2003. These victories further solidified her reputation as one of the most skilled and dominant judokas in the world.
Throughout her career, Kye Sun-hui’s achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of judo. Her dedication, talent, and perseverance have inspired generations of athletes in North Korea and beyond. Kye’s impact on the sport extends beyond her record-breaking performances, as she has become a symbol of excellence and a source of pride for her country.
Awards:
– Kim Il-sung Prize
– People’s Athlete title
– Labor Hero title