Retired volleyball great Kim Yeon-koung has won the International Olympic Committee's Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champions Award for the Asian region. (Korea Sports Council)

By Kang Gahui

Former volleyball star Kim Yeon-koung is this year's Asian regional winner of the Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champions Awards of the International Olympic Committee.

The honor recognizes individuals representing the world and each continent who contribute to promoting gender equality, diversity and inclusion through sports.

As a player, Kim raised the status of women's volleyball in Korea with world-class performances. Since retiring, she has sought to expand female participation in athletics, strengthen leadership, and create a safe and fair sports environment.

She launched her KYK Foundation to help youth athletes and expand their participation in sports.

Her foundation offers scholarships and training support to help young athletes who financially struggle to continue sports activities. Its focus is on lowering barriers to female sports participation and helping them continue.

kgh89@korea.kr