Kim Jong-Sun

Kim Jong-Sun was born in what is now North Korea and was first selected to represent Korea in the World Allround Speed Skating Championships at the age of 18. The Korean War interrupted his career, however, and he joined the armed forces. He was soon told to resume his training as an athlete and began representing South Korea internationally. His most notable appearance came at the 1956 Cortina d’Ampezzo Olympics, where he was 30th in the 10,000 metres, 36th in the 5000 metres, and 44th in the 1500 metres. Kim retired from active competition in 1957 due to injury and began working as a sports event manager. From 1961 through 1973 he held high positions at the Korean Ice Skating Federation and, in 1992, he immigrated to Los Angeles.

Personal Bests: 500 – 47.3 (1956); 1500 – 2:20.5 (1956); 5000 – 8:34.3 (1956); 10000 – 17:52.6 (1956).