Butterfly Players Worldwide introduce Butterfly players who are making an impact around the world.
This time, we feature Kim Gaon from Republic of Korea.

Profile of Kim Gaon

　 　

Place of origin	Republic of Korea
Playing Style	Right Hand, Shakehand, Attacking
Date of Birth	12 February 2006
Achievements	2025 Asian Youth Championships U19 Mixed Doubles Champion 2024 ITTF World Youth Championships U19 Boys’ Doubles Runner-up
Equipment	Blade: Harimoto Tomokazu Innerforce Super ALC Forehand Rubber: Dignics 09C Backhand Rubber: Dignics 09C

Explore Kim Gaon Q&A

Q1. How did you start playing table tennis?

I used to play table tennis with my older brother at church, and losing to him frustrated me so much that I decided to join my school’s table tennis team.

Q2. What’s your nickname?

People usually call me “Gaon.”

Q3. Who is your favorite table tennis player?

Fan Zhendong (China).

Q4. What do you focus on in your daily practice?

I believe every part of training is important, but I pay extra attention to the techniques I actually use in matches.

Q5. What kind of play are you best at?

Aggressive attacking play.

Q6. What do you do when you’re behind in a match?

I calm myself down by quietly talking to myself and repeating words that help me stay composed.

Q7. What’s the match you remember the most?

My best memory is from the 2025 Chairman’s Cup Corporate Table Tennis Championships. It was my first tournament after joining a corporate team, and my win over An Jae-hyun is the match I remember most.

Q8. What are your hobbies?

Fashion! I love buying clothes.

Q9. What kind of music do you like?

I like Justin Bieber.

Q10. What’s your favorite food?

I love seafood, such as shrimp, king crab, and more!

Q11. What’s your favorite place in Korea?

Seoul.

Q12. What’s your favorite country outside Korea?

I like Switzerland.

Q13. What equipment do you currently use, and why did you choose it?

I’ve loved the Viscaria since I was a kid and always used it. After becoming the signed player, I started receiving customized blades and rubbers, which I feel has really helped me improve my performance.

Q14. What’s your short-term goal?

My goal for next year is to compete in the national team selection tournament and become a member of the Korean national team!