“Skating Queen” Kim Yuna Opens Up About Hidden Struggles Behind Her Glorious Career

In a JTBC interview released on February 26, Kim Yuna looked back on the immense pressure she faced throughout her career. “People have always called me strong-minded and mentally unshakable. Of course, I delivered good results at crucial moments, maintained control over my mindset, and had luck on my side. But in reality, as a human being, I couldn’t help but feel nervous,” she admitted. In a rare moment of honesty, she recently confessed, “I pretended otherwise, but I was desperate.”

Fifteen years ago, on February 26, 2010, Kim made history at the Vancouver Olympics, scoring 228.56 points – an all-time record in women’s singles – to win South Korea’s first-ever Olympic figure skating gold. Reflecting on that defining moment, she revealed, “Only now can I say that I was trembling inside. But projecting confidence was also part of the competition.”

Even after 11 years of retirement, she still experiences the lingering effects of the pressure she endured. “I think those worries, anxieties, and fears became deeply ingrained in me over time, and they still haven’t completely faded,” she shared, revealing that she still dreams of falling from great heights.

Addressing the controversial judging at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, where she took silver despite a stellar performance, Kim clarified the emotions behind her tears during the medal ceremony. “People thought I cried out of injustice and resentment, but that wasn’t the case. I had already won gold in Vancouver. There was nothing more to achieve, and I no longer had the energy or motivation to push further.” Instead, her tears came from sheer relief. “The journey had been so exhausting. It felt like it was finally over, and all the emotions I had suppressed just came flooding out.”

A South Korean figure skating icon, Kim Yuna won gold at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and silver at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. She set 11 world records and became the first female skater in a century to achieve an “All Podium” record, never missing the podium in any international competition. Additionally, she completed the prestigious Grand Slam, winning Olympic, World Championship, Grand Prix Final, and Four Continents titles.

Despite retiring, Kim Yuna remains a legendary figure in the sport, with her grace and resilience continuing to inspire generations.