Veteran divers looking to end China stranglehold in Asian Games diving

JINCHEON, South Korea, Aug. 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korean diver Kim Su-ji has only earned bronze medals in her four Asian Games appearances, one in 2018 and two in 2023. The 28-year-old hopes for a different medal color this time at the upcoming competition in Japan. "I always want to win gold medals, because I have won enough bronze medals already," Kim stated at a joint national swimming team press conference in Jincheon, South Korea.

She expressed a desire to enjoy the competition as well. Kim and her new partner, 22-year-old Kim Na-hyun, have a history of high-difficulty programs. Kim noted, "I finally have someone who can perform at my level," which she believes will lead to strong results in this competition. To secure the gold, Kim and Na-hyun must break China's decades-long dominance in Asian Games diving, as China has won every gold medal since 1974.

Kim emphasized the importance of a strong personal connection between partners for her success. "I have always done well when I got along with my partners outside the arena. I try to treat Na-hyun as an equal, not just a junior teammate, and talk to her as much as I can," she said. Kim Yeong-nam, also aiming for his first Asian Games gold, has won four silver and one bronze in previous competitions.

He will compete in the 1m springboard event without his longtime partner, Woo Haram, who is serving his mandatory military service. Kim expressed hope for a reunion with Haram at the training center in the future.