*This content was translated by AI.
'Bae Gu (황제)' Kim Yeon-koung (38) spent a special time with young athletes who drew inspiration from her.
The KYK Foundation announced on the 16th that it held the "2026 KYK Youth Scholarship Student Meeting" at Seoul Samsung Dong on the 12th.
Attendees at the meeting included Kim Yeon-koung Lee (President), foundation officials, 20 of the 22nd scholarship recipients, and family members of the athletes.
Established in 2024, the KYK Foundation provides scholarships and sports equipment to help youth and teenage athletes focus on both training and academics in a more stable environment. It also coordinates medical checkups and treatment support through affiliated hospitals.
The scale of support has expanded rapidly. Last year, nine volleyball players were selected as the first scholarship recipients. This year, the program was expanded to include sports such as sport climbing, taekwondo, triathlon, fencing, swimming, and snowboarding, adding 13 more athletes across 11 disciplines. Currently, a total of 22 youth and teenage athletes receive support from the foundation.
During the meeting, the athletes freely shared their recent training experiences, future goals, and expectations for the foundation.
Yang Da-young (18), a libero for Mokpo Girls' High School preparing for this year's V-League rookie draft, said, "I have dreamed of becoming like Kim Yeon-koung Lee (President)." She added, "Knowing that there are people who not only provide financial support through the KYK Foundation but also cheer for and believe in me has made me take my training more seriously."
She further stated, "Although it still feels unreal, I am both excited and nervous as we approach this year's V-League rookie draft. I want to face the draft without any regrets."
For Kim Do-ha (15), a promising fencing épée fencer in his third year at Balan Middle School, equipment support itself is a significant boost. Kim said, "Due to recent global issues, equipment prices have risen sharply. Thanks to the foundation's support, I can focus solely on training." He added, "I feel a strong responsibility to work hard and grow into a proper athlete in return for their support. I will do my best with the goal of becoming an Olympic gold medalist."
The event also provided special memories for the athletes. A professional photographer personally took profile photos capturing each scholarship recipient's sport and individuality. This was more than just financial aid; it was an opportunity for young athletes to concretely visualize their dreams.
Kim Yeon-koung Lee (President) remarked, "I have watched the scholarship recipients grow by performing well in various competitions this year. This is the foundation's greatest achievement." She continued, "In the long term, I hope these current scholarship recipients will grow into excellent athletes and create a virtuous cycle where they can once again support future generations. We will continue to be a reliable foundation."
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*This content was translated by AI.
