Kim Yoon-ji, also known as 'Smiley', has made history at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina by winning a total of three medals in a span of four days, setting a record for the most medals ever won by a South Korean at a single Winter Paralympic Games. In her latest achievement, she secured a silver medal in the women's 10km interval start cross-country skiing event, finishing with a time of 26:51.6, just behind the legendary Oksana Masters from the USA. Kim's remarkable performance highlights her skill and resilience on the challenging course that features varied terrains, pushing her to her limits.

During the race held on March 11, Kim took an early lead, crossing the 1.6km checkpoint first, showcasing her speed and stamina. However, as the race progressed, she encountered challenges, including a fall in the final loop of the race, which put her in a precarious position. Despite this setback, Kim rapidly regained her composure, quickly getting back on her skis and finishing second, which exemplifies her determination and competitive spirit.

In a post-race interview, Kim reflected on her performance, expressing that the race was thrilling and that her training, which involved extensive weight training, significantly contributed to her success. With three medals already around her neck—one gold from the women's individual 12.5 km biathlon and two silvers—Kim is poised to inspire many with her achievements, as she breaks barriers and sets new records for South Korea at the Winter Paralympics.