Chloe Kim's Parents Supported Her Olympic Dreams from Immigration Roots

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Chloe Kim, the American snowboarder aiming for her third consecutive Olympic gold medal, has had unwavering support from her Korean immigrant parents, Jong Jin Kim and Boran Yun Kim. Her father quit his job to focus on building Kim's career, while her mother has been a constant presence cheering her on. Kim also spent time training with her aunt in Geneva as a child. Despite a recent shoulder injury, Kim is confident in her abilities as she competes in the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Why it matters

Chloe Kim's story highlights the sacrifices immigrant parents often make to support their children's athletic dreams, which can go unrecognized compared to the athlete's achievements. Her journey also demonstrates the importance of family support and mentorship in cultivating Olympic-level talent.

The details

Chloe Kim's mother, Boran Yun Kim, has been a constant presence supporting her daughter, even receiving a heartfelt letter from Kim reflecting on her gold medal win. Her father, Jong Jin Kim, made the major decision to quit his job to focus on building Kim's snowboarding career, taking her on weekend trips to the mountains as a child. Kim also spent time training with her aunt in Geneva during her elementary school years. Despite a recent shoulder injury that nearly derailed her Olympic dreams, Kim is confident in her abilities as she competes for her third consecutive gold medal.

• Chloe Kim suffered a shoulder injury in a training accident in Switzerland weeks before the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• In 2025, Kim landed a double cork 1080 in a snowboard halfpipe competition, becoming the first woman to do so.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Chloe Kim will compete in the halfpipe finals at the 2026 Winter Olympics on February 12.