Shawn Kim, the dynamic short-track speedskater, emerged as a prodigious talent at the age of fourteen when he was honored with the prestigious “Junior Development Skater of the Year” award by the US Speedskating’s High Performance Department in 2018. This accolade not only recognized his exceptional skills but also positioned him as one of the brightest prospects in the sport, following in the footsteps of his older brother, the renowned Brandon Kim.
Shawn’s journey into the world of speedskating began at the tender age of eight, where his natural affinity for speed became evident. Under the guidance of short-track Olympic medalist Simon Cho, he secured a coveted spot at the Potomac Speedskating Club. His achievements include clinching bronze in the Junior D age group at the US Short Track Age Group Nationals, achieving personal best times and showcasing his determination to excel.
Training diligently at the renowned Olympic Oval in Salt Lake City, Shawn hones his skills on and off the ice, perfecting his belt-crossovers in dry-land sessions. Post-race, his preferred way to cap off the day involves a combination of a banana, Clif bar, and juice. Looking ahead, Shawn aspires to reach Olympic status, aspiring to follow the path paved by his esteemed coach.
Beyond the rink, Shawn is a high-achieving student who earned a place at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, a testament to his academic prowess. His passion for art shines through, with competition-winning creations reflecting his attention to detail—a quality that seamlessly translates into his skating technique. With dreams of exploring long-track skating and a commitment to challenging himself, Shawn Kim stands as a multifaceted and promising figure in the world of short-track speedskating.
