Team Kim disbanded after 17 years, winning Olympic silver medal through after-school curling
Team Kim, known for its significant contribution to South Korean curling, has officially disbanded after 17 years of success and Olympic achievement.
Team Kim, a women's curling team from Gangneung City Hall in South Korea, has officially announced its disbandment after 17 years of operation, captivating the nation with its curling success and inspiring a substantial following for the sport. The team became widely known not only for their skills but also for their unique name, 'Team Kim,' as all members had the surname Kim. Their journey began with after-school activities and culminated in winning a silver medal at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, marking a historic moment for South Korea in the sport of curling.
The members of Team Kim included Kim Eun-jung, Kim Kyung-ae, Kim Cho-hee, Kim Sun-young, and Kim Young-mi, all of whom made significant contributions to their success. Following the disbandment, two members, Kim Sun-young and Kim Cho-hee, will continue their curling careers within Gangneung City Hall, whereas Kim Eun-jung and Kim Kyung-ae are set to join the Uiseong County Office and Jeonbuk Provincial Office, respectively. Meanwhile, Kim Young-mi will transition to coaching at an elementary school curling club, marking a new chapter in her career.
Throughout their career, especially highlighted by their performance at the Winter Olympics and the 2022 World Championships, Team Kim has left an indelible mark on Korean sports culture. Their popularity soared not only for their accomplishments but also for their charismatic leader, Kim Eun-jung, famously known as 'glasses senior,' and the catchphrase 'Young-mi Young-mi' that became a trend among fans. In their farewell message, the team expressed deep gratitude to their supporters, emphasizing that their time together was made brighter by the encouragement they received from the community throughout the years.