Rim Jong-sim

Rim Jong-sim is a retired weightlifter with a distinguished career, recognized for her two Olympic gold medals and numerous international achievements. After establishing herself as one of the most successful female Olympic weightlifters since the introduction of women’s events at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, Rim Jong-sim achieved a career distinguished by two Olympic gold medals, becoming the first woman to earn this distinction for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Her remarkable athletic prowess was globally recognized with her first Olympic gold medal in the women’s 75 kg weightlifting class at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. This historic victory not only solidified her status as a global leader in the sport but also marked North Korea’s first gold medal at those Games, underscoring her exceptional impact on the national delegation’s performance.

Throughout her decorated career, Rim Jong-sim demonstrated consistent high-level performance and unwavering dominance within the women’s 75 kg division, showcasing exceptional strength and technique. Beyond her Olympic triumphs, she also earned the prestigious title of World Champion, a testament to her global supremacy. Her impressive record extends to the Asian Games, where she secured a coveted gold medal at an event held in Indonesia, in addition to an earlier bronze medal. Further highlighting her consistent top-tier achievements, Rim Jong-sim was also crowned Asian Champion, consistently contributing to North Korea’s formidable presence in the sport of weightlifting across major international competitions.

While no longer competing, her achievements remain a benchmark for excellence in the women’s 75 kg weight class and beyond. Rim Jong-sim now focuses on her personal life as a mother, continuing to be recognized for her historic contributions to the sport and her nation.