South Korean boxer Im Ae-ji is setting her sights on a medal at the upcoming 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, marking her third attempt at the continental competition. Having previously faced early exits in her past two Asian Games appearances, the 27-year-old Hwaseong City Hall athlete is determined to reach the finals this time around.
Im’s ambition was shared during a media day event held 30 days before the Games at the Chungbuk Jincheon National Training Center. This upcoming Asian Games represents a significant opportunity for Im, who has already made history in Korean women’s boxing.
Historic Achievement at the Paris Olympics
Im Ae-ji etched her name in the annals of Korean sports by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 54kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This monumental achievement made her the first-ever Olympic medalist in Korean women’s boxing. Her success also marked a significant milestone for Korean boxing as a whole, breaking a 12-year Olympic medal drought since Han Soon-chul’s silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
Following her Olympic triumph, Im continued to build on her momentum. In the past year, she added another bronze medal at the World Championships held in Liverpool, England. She also clinched the top spot at the 63rd Belgrade Winner Tournament, further solidifying her status as a top international competitor.
Overcoming Past Asian Games Disappointments
Despite her international successes, the Asian Games have presented a unique challenge for Im. She participated in the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Games and the 2022 Hangzhou Games but was eliminated in her opening match on both occasions. These past disappointments fuel her resolve for the upcoming Games.
Im expressed her strong desire to overcome these past setbacks. “This is my third time competing in the Asian Games,” she stated. “I lost in the first round both times, but this time, I aim to reach the finals.”
Mental and Physical Preparation
The period following the Paris Olympics required a dedicated focus on both physical recovery and mental fortitude. Im acknowledged the challenges she faced, reflecting, “After the Paris Olympics, I paid a lot of attention to injury management. While I was grateful for the good results, there were always lingering regrets about the matches themselves. I think I competed with those regrets.”
She further elaborated on the pressure she felt, adding, “There was a lot of pressure after the Olympics. I am preparing with the mindset of starting anew. Despite the considerable pressure, I believe I can do well by trusting myself and will give my best effort.”
Support from National Training Programs
The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee (KSOC) is providing crucial support through its national team intensive training programs, bolstering preparations for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. The ‘2026 Aichi-Nagoya AG Team Korea CARE’ project is designed to enhance athlete recovery, condition management, medical and scientific support, and psychological and tactical guidance.
Im highlighted how these programs are aiding her in her training. “Of course, I have received a lot of support before,” she said. “But through the VR program, they created an environment that simulates actual competition, allowing me to focus better.” She also noted the scientific approach to analysis, stating, “The analysis is also being done scientifically. They are continuously analyzing athletes from other countries and working hard for our athletes, which I can feel.”
Im Ae-ji’s Strengths and Strategy
Im identifies her unpredictable movement and timing as her key strengths. “My strengths are unpredictability and timing,” she explained. “Asian athletes often have a lot of variation and speed.” Her strategy emphasizes thorough preparation for all opponents rather than focusing on a single rival.
“Instead of singling out one specific opponent, everyone needs to be respected and taken seriously,” Im asserted. “I will prepare thoroughly and bring back good results.”
Looking Ahead to the Asian Games
Having already proven her capabilities on the Olympic and World Championship stages, Im Ae-ji is now turning her attention to achieving her first Asian Games medal. Putting the disappointment of early exits in her previous two appearances behind her, she has set a clear goal: to reach the finals in her third attempt.
