Lin Xiaojun (Im Hyo-jun) once again looked back on his past and present. After leaving Korea and starting anew as a member of China's national team, he endured countless controversies and scrutiny and emphasized, "the pain actually made me stronger."
Lin Xiaojun published a lengthy message in Chinese on his social media on the 7th.
He said, "My career was filled with extreme hardship. But that pain could not destroy me," and added, "It rather made me stronger, more determined and more complete as a person."
The photo spread released with the writing also drew attention. Lin Xiaojun showcased a variety of concepts, from suits to his short-track uniform, through a fashion magazine shoot. Local reaction was so enthusiastic that some said he has established himself not just as a Chinese sports star but as a celebrity. Chinese fans poured supportive comments into his social media posts.
Lin Xiaojun's life underwent dramatic change. He rose to prominence as Korea's short-track flag bearer after winning the men's 1,500 meters gold medal while a member of the Korean team at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.
But his career was shaken in 2019 by an incident that occurred during national team training. He was sanctioned by the Korea Skating Union and the case proceeded to criminal trial.
Amid major controversy at the time, Lin Xiaojun was found guilty in the first trial, but he was subsequently acquitted in the second trial and by the Supreme Court. As time passed, assessments followed that his reputation had largely been restored.
However, the choice had already been made. Lin Xiaojun decided to naturalize as a Chinese citizen immediately after the first trial verdict and later wore the Chinese national team uniform.
He directly addressed his reasons for choosing China on several occasions. He explained that he wanted to pursue a new challenge in China, which believed in his innocence and provided training conditions.
Ultimately, Lin Xiaojun took the Olympic stage as a representative of China at the 2026 Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Olympics held in February. It was his first Olympic appearance in eight years since his time as a Korean athlete.
But the results were disappointing. He failed to win the medals he had hoped for. Still, Lin Xiaojun has not stopped challenging himself. Now 30, he has left open the possibility of competing at the Winter Olympics in the French Alps in four years.
The most important thing now is his physical condition. In a recent local interview in China, Lin Xiaojun said he plans to focus on recharging for the time being.
Whether he will compete in international events in the 2026-2027 season has not yet been decided. He said he intends to concentrate on injury treatment and recovering his condition rather than trying to compete in too many events this fall and winter.
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