Kim Gilly made headlines after securing a gold medal in the Women's 1500m final at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, marking her as a key figure in South Korea's short track team. During a press interview post-victory, she was initially elated but turned somber upon hearing about her mentor Choi Minjeong's impending retirement. Gilly praised Minjeong for her guidance and expressed a desire to emulate her success, showcasing the emotional bond shared between the athletes.

In the final, Gilly and teammate Choi Minjeong managed to overtake the leading American skater, Karine Stoddard, demonstrating an impressive teamwork strategy that surprised many viewers. Gilly highlighted the unspoken chemistry between them that led to their swift maneuvers and eventual victory. The gold medal was especially significant for Gilly as it was the first individual medal for South Korea in this category at the Olympics, making her achievement a historic moment for the country's short track history.

As the celebrations began, Gilly reflected on her journey, noting how surreal the experience felt, especially given the hardships leading up to this moment. Her joy, however, was tempered by the bittersweet news of Minjeong’s retirement, which left her momentarily speechless. Minjeong’s statement about being proud to pass on the 'ace' role to Gilly signifies a transition of leadership within the team, indicating a promising future for Gilly as she steps into a more prominent role in international short track competitions, while carrying the legacy of her esteemed predecessor.