THE KUKMIN DAILY

Im Hyo-jun (22, Korea National Sports University) closed his eyes in recollection after capturing the gold medal in the 1,500 meter men’s short track speedskating finals at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, held at Gangneung Ice Arena in Gangwon-do on February 10. Flashing through his mind were memories of his past injuries, which had necessitated seven operations and diligent rehabilitation.

On the morning of February 11, medalist Im attended Sunday worship at the religious center in Gangneung Olympic Village, where he confessed, “I am thankful to God for allowing me, despite my shortcomings, to be the recipient of the ROK’s first gold medal at these Winter Olympics.”

*From left: Park Cheol-seung, head pastor of Jincheon Olympic Village Church; athletes Seo Yi-ra and Im Hyo-jun; and Choi Hyeon-bu, president of World Sports Mission.

Im, who since childhood has followed his mother in the faith, recounted that “After middle school, I suffered a series of injuries including a ruptured ligament in my right ankle, a right-ankle fracture and a spinal fracture, and each time, I prayed earnestly to God for healing…It seems as if God has healed me for this.” He explained the gesture he made before the awards ceremony, when he pointed up with his forefinger (top photo): “It was my unique expression to give thanks and return all honor to God. God did it all.” He added, “The Olympics are not over yet. I want to do my best and achieve victory in the 5,000 meter relay event, also. Please keep praying for me.”

Skater Im’s mother Gwak Da-hyeon said in a telephone interview with Kukmin Daily the same day, “The Olympics are not over yet, so I will keep on cheering quietly for my son…I hope Hyo-jun’s challenge will give hope to many other persons.”

Reporter Yeong Dae Yoo (ydyoo@kmib.co.kr), from Gangneung, with Marion Kim (marionkkim@icloud.com)
Photos provided by AP Newsis, World Sports Mission


Full Story in Korean:
평창 ‘대한민국 첫 금메달’ 임효준 선수 “부상 때 늘 치료 간구… 이때를 위해 낫게 하신 듯”: 강릉선수촌 주일예배 참석