South Korea shooter Kim Ye-ji collapses at press conference
South Korean pistol shooter Kim Ye-ji collapsed during a press conference, apparently due to stress and exhaustion. The 31-year-old won silver in the 10-metre air pistol event.
South Korean Olympic silver medallist pistol shooter Kim Ye-ji, renowned for her calm demeanour and distinctive appearance during the Paris Games, has recently faced a health scare that highlights the immense pressure athletes endure. Kim, who became a social media sensation, collapsed at a news conference on Friday, evidently due to stress and exhaustion.
The incident occurred during an event in Imsil, Kim’s home county in southern South Korea, which she represented for seven years. According to a county official, Kim lost consciousness while speaking but was quick to regain it before being rushed to the hospital for further observation.
Despite initial media reports, the 31-year-old athlete did not require cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The county official clarified that Kim was likely fatigued from her rigorous participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics and would remain in the hospital until she had fully recovered.
Kim’s rise to fame includes her stellar performance in the 10-metre air pistol event, where she secured a silver medal. Her futuristic glasses, designed for precision, and her composed style have made her a viral sensation, earning her the nickname “smiling assassin” back home. These elements not only reflect her focus and dedication but have also captivated audiences worldwide.
In an interesting twist to her growing fame, Kim expressed her gratitude towards Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Musk had taken to his social media platform, X, to laud Kim, suggesting she “should be cast in an action movie. No acting required!” This endorsement further boosted her popularity, melding the worlds of sports and entertainment.