Judoka Mo Su-min Wins Korea’s First-Ever Women’s Kurash Asian Games Medal
Judoka Mo Su-min has made history for South Korea, securing the nation’s first-ever Asian Games medal in women’s kurash. Mo, who typically competes in the 70kg weight class, was forced to move up to the 78kg division—the lowest weight category available for the event—where she successfully competed against larger opponents.
In the tournament final, Mo faced Pokizakhon Kamoldinova of Uzbekistan, the sport’s country of origin. Despite an active offensive approach, Mo was ultimately defeated 0-10 by the seasoned competitor. Reflecting on the challenge of the higher weight class, Mo noted, From the quarterfinals, I felt that my opponents were too big.
Her path to the final included a victory by halal
(ippon) against a Mongolian athlete in the quarterfinals and a yomboshi
(waza-ari) score against India’s Pincky Balhara in the semifinals.
Competing in a Higher Weight Class in Traditional Kurash
Kurash, a traditional martial art originating from Uzbekistan, shares similarities with judo but strictly prohibits ground grappling techniques such as pinning, choking, and joint locks.
Dual Athletic Ambitions
Following her silver medal performance, Mo expressed a sense of relief and joy, noting that the achievement proved her international competitiveness. Looking forward, she has set a goal to win a gold medal in kurash at the next Asian Games in four years. However, she remains dedicated to her primary sport of judo. Mo stated, I want to see the end as a judo athlete,
identifying the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as her major target. She concluded, I will continue to challenge myself in kurash at the Asian Games, while as a judo athlete, I definitely want to compete in the LA Olympics.