Kim Woo-jin: a golden legacy in archery
Juan José Saldaña
October 26, 2024

Kim Woo-jin, born on June 20, 1992, in South Korea, stands as one of the most remarkable archers in modern archery history, currently ranked number one in the world, he has etched his name into the record books through precision, consistency, and a competitive spirit. From his early days in the sport, Kim displayed exceptional talent that propelled him to achieve the world record in men’s recurve archery. Living in Chungju, South Korea, he balances academic pursuits with unwavering dedication in each competition.

Kim’s career has been marked by significant milestones, most notably his Olympic victories and world championships. In Paris 2024, Kim Woo-jin reached the pinnacle of his career by completing a golden triple: he claimed gold in individual, men’s team, and mixed team events. With these three Olympic gold medals, he brought his total to five, solidifying his place as a living legend in the sport and reaffirming South Korea’s supremacy in archery.

Perfect olympic performance

In the men’s individual event at Paris 2024, Kim faced off against American archer Brady Ellison in a final that will be remembered by archery fans worldwide. The South Korean started with some difficulty but, in an impressive display of control and precision, came back with five perfect arrows, clinching the gold medal. His remarkable performance extended to the men’s team and mixed team categories. This triple triumph secured his status as one of the greatest archers of all time, adding yet another golden mark to South Korea’s Olympic legacy.

Achieving the golden triple was no easy feat. Kim had to overcome the pressure of competing on three fronts and face high-level opponents. However, with his experience and composure, he maintained enviable accuracy, excelling in critical moments and achieving a feat that few athletes have accomplished in Olympic history.

The fifth World Cup

Just a few months after his performance in Paris, Kim Woo-jin arrived in Tlaxcala, Mexico, to compete in the final of the Hyundai Archery World Cup men’s recurve event. Once again, he showcased his skill, defeating fellow countryman Lee Woo-seok in a closely contested final, claiming his fifth World Cup title—an extraordinary milestone that reinforces his dominance in the discipline.

The showdown between Kim and Lee in Tlaxcala was especially memorable, as both archers have shared several significant moments throughout their careers. In the end, there was no excessive celebration, only a modest acknowledgment of Lee and a look of respect and camaraderie, reminding spectators of the sportsmanship and brotherhood among South Korean competitors.

An unforgettable season

The 2024 season has undoubtedly been the most successful of Kim Woo-jin’s career. His achievements at both the Paris Olympics and the World Cup in Tlaxcala have cemented his status as a living legend. With five World Cup titles and five Olympic gold medals, Kim has proven to be one of the most complete and consistent athletes of his generation. His ability to thrive under pressure and execute near-perfect shots has made him a role model for archers worldwide.

Kim remains unsatisfied with his current achievements; in his own words, he expressed his desire to keep competing and winning, leaving open the possibility of future victories. For the 32-year-old, each competition is an opportunity to refine his technique and maintain the dominance that has characterized his career. Kim Woo-jin’s story is a testament to dedication and perseverance, a true example of what can be accomplished through passion and commitment in the world of sports.

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