At the Paris Olympics 2024, South Korean pistol shooter Kim Ye-ji has emerged as an unexpected icon. Known for her striking presence and cool demeanor, Kim captured the silver medal in the women’s 10-meter air pistol event. With her futuristic glasses, intense focus, and viral social media moments, Kim has captivated audiences worldwide. Her blend of athleticism and unique style has made her one of the standout stars of the Games, earning admiration from fans and celebrities alike. Here’s a closer look at the key highlights of Kim Ye-ji’s remarkable journey in Paris.
Kim Ye-ji, a 31-year-old South Korean pistol shooter, has captivated the world with her striking presence and exceptional performance, clinching silver in the women’s 10-meter air pistol event.
Kim's futuristic steampunk-esque glasses and intense demeanor have made her a viral sensation, with fans comparing her to James Bond and characters from popular manga like Satoru Gojo.
Even tech mogul Elon Musk has taken notice, suggesting it would be "cool" to see Kim in an action movie, further boosting her profile and adding to her online fame.
Earlier this year, Kim set a world record at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup in Azerbaijan, demonstrating her confidence and skill well before the Paris Games.
Kim's confidence, evidenced by her claim of having "nothing to improve," and her distinctive style, including a backward cap and intense glare, have captured the public’s imagination.
Despite her fierce competition, Kim has shown her nurturing side, expressing joy and support for her younger teammate, Oh Ye-jin, who won gold in the same event.
Kim’s soft side is evident as she competes with a small stuffed elephant in her pocket, a cherished item from her daughter, blending personal warmth with her competitive edge.
GQ dubbed Kim the "coldest style star" of the Olympics, highlighting her unique blend of athletic prowess and high-fashion look, which has further fueled her internet fame.
With the 25-meter pistol event on the horizon, Kim remains confident, stating she aims to win gold, keeping fans and media eagerly anticipating her next performance.
Kim’s calm, almost robotic composure has led to a flurry of memes and fan art, cementing her status as a memorable and iconic figure from the Paris Olympics.