Youth Empowered, Leaders Inspired: Sangjin Kim

As long as he can remember, Sangjin Kim loved football. Grow up in KoreaMuch of his spare time was spent on the field. But in 2022 his passion for sport got a new meaning when he became a member of Tove FC, a football club for athletes with intellectual handicap. That decision marked the start of his journey as a united partner and eventually as a leader within Special Olympics.

When Sangjin became a member for the first time, the Tove FC coach wanted to create a united football team, with athletes with and without intellectual disabilities linking on the same side. Sangjin immediately stepped in.

“We met each other on the floor every Friday to practice. My favorite memory was then one of our athletes scored for the first time. We were all so happy and we celebrated together.”

In the same year, Sangjin and his teammates participated in the Special Olympics Korea International Unified Game. It was his first taste of Unified SportsAnd it left a lasting impression.

In the beginning, some wondered if united teams could really work. Many people doubted whether athletes with an intellectual disability could play at the same level. Sangjin soon realized that those doubts resulted from a lack of exposure, no power.

“Those who play with individuals with an intellectual disability understand that they can fully participate and contribute. The answer is a chance. Athletes can do well if they get a chance.”

Seeing his teammates on the field thriving led to Sangjin’s deeper dedication to recording. He joined the Korea Athlete Leadership Council (Kalc) and the 9th Youth Innovation Project as a uniform partner leader, where he worked to increase the consciousness and support for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Because of these opportunities, Sangjin witnessed how friendship and teamwork lives could change, including his. His friends started to see athletes with intellectual disabilities differently, with more respect and curiosity. What started as a love for football transformed him into a leader, a lawyer and a friend.

In October 2023, Sangjin took another step forward. He came to Special Olympics Korea as an employee of the sports department.

“If I plan an event, my goal is simple, I want participants to be happy and enjoy. After all the hard work, when I see their smile and pride, it gives me energy.”

For Sangjin, inclusion comes down to one word, understanding.

Nowadays, Sangjin continues to create opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability to lead, compete and shine. Supported by mentors, colleagues and teammates, he is determined to use his experiences, on and off the football field, to build a more inclusive future.

“With them I have learned leadership, inclusion, teamwork. Every moment is especially for me.”