Kim Hayun (second from left) on June 19 poses for photos after winning the women's heavyweight title at the World Judo Championships in Budapest, Hungary. (International Judo Federation's official website)

By Park Hyeri

Kim Hayun, the fifth-best female competitor in her weight class according to the International Judo Federation, has won a world title in her sport.

In the women's heavyweight (78 kg) final on June 19 at the World Judo Championships in Budapest, Hungary, Kim defeated Mao Arai (world No. 7) of Japan through penalties.

Kim is Korea's first world judo champion in that weight class in 34 years since Moon Ji-Yoon at the 1991 tournament in Spain.

In the quarterfinals, Kim defeated her younger teammate Lee Hyeonji (No. 4) due to penalties and beat in the same manner world No. 1 Romane Dicko of France in overtime in the semifinals.

Winning a bronze medal at last year's world championships, Kim won the gold at this competition to make the winner's podium for the second year in a row.

Meanwhile, the national team finished sixth in individual medals at this year's tournament, with Lee for the women and Lee Joonhwan (81 kg) and Kim Minjong (100 kg) for the men each earning a bronze.

hrhr@korea.kr