Wat-Not Staff
South Korean shooter Kim Yeji, dubbed the ‘Coolest Olympian’ at Paris 2024, won a silver medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event. Her stylish, relaxed look and unique charm captured global attention, even drawing praise from Elon Musk.
“Coolest Olympian”
South Korean shooter Kim Yeji became an overnight sensation at the Paris 2024 Olympics, earning the title of the ‘Coolest Olympian’ online.
Her poised performance at the Chateauroux shooting range, where she won a silver medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event, captivated audiences worldwide.
Dressed in a black jacket, white baseball cap, and with an elephant plushie hanging at her waist, Kim’s relaxed demeanour made waves across social media, with Elon Musk even suggesting she should star in an action movie.
Kim Yeji’s Viral Fame and Style
Kim’s cool and collected approach during the Olympics made her an internet favourite.
Publications like The New York Times and NBC praised her style, likening her to a character from a sci-fi movie.
TIME magazine highlighted her “aura winning the internet,” while GQ dubbed her Paris 2024’s “first breakout style star.”
Kim, however, remains grounded despite the attention.
“I’m grateful for the support, especially from Musk,” she shared, adding that the increased attention might have boosted the popularity of shooting in Korea.
Balancing Fame and Family Life
Back home in South Korea, Kim is eagerly awaiting the chance to spend time with her young daughter.
“When I returned, my first stop was to hug my daughter tightly,” Kim said.
She is looking forward to putting her silver medal around her daughter’s neck, asking her, “Isn’t it heavy?” Kim’s dedication to her sport is matched by her commitment to being a role model for her daughter, emphasising that her achievements are driven by a desire to make her family proud.
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