1. Overview
Kim Un-chol (김은철Kim Ŭnch'ŏlKorean; born September 23, 1979) is a North Korean boxer who achieved international recognition by winning a bronze medal in the light flyweight (under 106 lb (48 kg)) division at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. His athletic career highlights his participation in this significant global sporting event, bringing a medal to his nation in the field of boxing.
2. Life
2.1. Early Life and Background
Kim Un-chol was born on September 23, 1979. Details regarding his early life and upbringing are not widely known from available records, with his birth date being the primary biographical information documented.
3. Boxing Career
Kim Un-chol's boxing career is prominently marked by his performance at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics, where he competed in the light flyweight division, which caters to boxers weighing under 106 lb (48 kg).
3.1. 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics
At the 2000 Summer Olympics held in Sydney, Australia, Kim Un-chol competed in the men's light flyweight boxing category. His journey to the bronze medal involved several challenging bouts.
His first match saw him defeat Sebusiso Keketsi of Lesotho by Referee Stopped Contest (RSC) in the fourth round. Following this victory, Kim Un-chol faced Pál Lakatos from Hungary, whom he defeated with a points score of 20-8. In the quarter-finals, he secured another win against Ivanas Stapovičius of Lithuania, with a score of 22-10. These consistent performances earned him a place in the semi-finals.
In the semi-final match, Kim Un-chol competed against Rafael Lozano of Spain. Lozano ultimately defeated Kim Un-chol with a score of 15-10. Despite the semi-final loss, Kim Un-chol was awarded a bronze medal, a significant achievement for both him and North Korea at the Olympic Games.
4. Legacy and Assessment
Kim Un-chol's bronze medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics represents a notable achievement in North Korean sports history. His performance brought international recognition to North Korean boxing, highlighting the athletic capabilities within the country. While specific details about his career post-Olympics or his broader social impact are not extensively documented, his Olympic medal remains a significant marker of his legacy as a boxer from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.