Ho-mmi Throws First Pitch at KBO Series, Eyes Olympic Gold

Paris Olympic silver medalist and 2026 Asian Games gold medalist Huh Mimi confessed to feeling more nervous during a ceremonial first pitch at a Korean Series baseball game than she did in a global judo final, Star News Korea reported.

The 24-year-old judo superstar took the mound at Daegu Samsung Lions Park on November 7 for Game 4 of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Korean Series. After the pitch, which came ahead of a performance of the national anthem by singer Hong Isaac, Huh spoke to a throng of reporters about her experience.

“I was more nervous than in a judo match,” Huh said with a laugh. “I was very nervous, but the feeling of honor was much bigger, so I was truly happy.”

She added, “I had so much interest in baseball because it’s so popular. I was truly honored to be able to do a first pitch for the Korean Series.” The experience was particularly novel for Huh, who, despite her experience on the world’s biggest stages, was unaccustomed to the atmosphere of a baseball stadium.

“Judo and baseball are completely different, I think. I thought the baseball players are truly amazing,” she remarked. “I was this nervous just for a first pitch, so I wondered how nervous the actual players must be.” When asked if she was pleased with her own performance, she responded brightly, “I liked it.”

A Champion Rooted in History

Huh Mimi is a star representing Korean judo, but her story is one of international roots and deep national pride. Born and raised in Japan to a Korean father and Japanese mother, she chose to represent Korea in 2021, relinquishing her Japanese citizenship at the request of her grandmother, who wished to see her compete for her homeland.

In the process of registering as a Korean athlete, she learned her family lineage: she is the great-great-great-granddaughter of Huh Seok, an independence activist who resisted Japanese colonial rule. This discovery instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility, particularly when wearing the Taegukki, the South Korean national flag.

Her skill is undeniably world-class. In 2024, she won gold in the women’s 57kg category at the Abu Dhabi World Judo Championships. At the Paris Olympics later that year, she claimed a silver medal in the same weight class and a bronze in the mixed team event, emerging as a new standard-bearer for Korean judo. However, the Olympic gold medal remained elusive.

Upon returning from Paris, Huh visited the “Miracle Monument” dedicated to her ancestor Huh Seok in Gunwi, Daegu. There, she offered her medals and vowed to return with a gold. This year, she fulfilled that promise.

Gold in Japan, a National Symbol

In October at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, Huh Mimi faced Terbish Ariunbayar of Mongolia in the women’s 57kg final and secured the gold medal. A player born and raised in Japan stood atop the podium, raising the Taegukki on Japanese soil in the highest position.

“I brought the gold medal back, and it reminded me of the moment I took the medals to the monument after the Olympics,” Huh reflected. “At that time, I had won silver and bronze, but this time I was able to win a gold medal, so it felt like I really finished the competition well.”

The triumph has only strengthened her resolve. “My desire to absolutely win an Olympic gold medal has grown much stronger,” she emphasized.

A New Chapter on and Off the Mat

As the champion from a line of independence fighters prepares for her next challenge, Huh Mimi is also embarking on a new chapter in her athletic career. After many years with Gyeongbuk Sports Council, she will be transferring to the Namyangju City Government team starting next year.

“I wanted to start anew. I have high expectations, and I think I can show a new side of myself,” she explained, citing her reason for the move. This transition comes as she manages ongoing physical challenges.

Regarding the condition of both her knees, Huh stated, “I haven’t had them checked yet. It seems I will have to get them examined and manage them with treatment. I have a lot of injuries, so I will have to diligently undergo treatment and rehabilitation this winter.”

Her focus for the coming season is clear. “Recently, I haven’t competed in many international tournaments, so my world ranking points have gone down,” she said. “Next year, I plan to gradually participate in international competitions to raise my condition and competitive feel.”

“The biggest goal is to win gold medals at next year’s Asian Championships and World Championships,” Huh concluded, setting her sights on the next major international events.

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