Ssireum wrestler Kim Mu-ho completes career 'Grand Slam' at major folk tournament

Kim Mu-ho has achieved a career 'Grand Slam' in Ssireum, the traditional Korean wrestling, by winning the Halla Jangsa title at the 2026 Boeun Dan-o Jangsa Ssireum competition. This latest victory solidifies his dominance in the sport and marks a significant milestone.

The win in Boeun, held at the Boeun National Gymnasium in Boeun County, Chungcheongbuk Province, saw Kim Mu-ho defeat Song Young-cheon of Yeongam County Folk Ssireum Team 3-0 in the final. This triumph not only secured his fourth consecutive Jangsa title this season but also marked his 13th career Halla Jangsa title.

Kim Mu-ho's path to the final included decisive victories in the earlier rounds. He defeated his teammate Lee Hyo-jin 2-0 in the quarterfinals and overcame Choi Seong-hwan of Euisung County Office 2-1 in a closely contested semifinal. In the championship match, Kim Mu-ho demonstrated his superior skill, winning the first bout with a 'deulbaegi' (lifting throw) and securing the next two with powerful 'mir-eo-chigi' (pushing techniques), never conceding a point to his opponent.

Reflecting on his success, Kim Mu-ho stated that there was no special secret, attributing his performance to the unwavering support he received. He expressed gratitude for the encouragement, highlighting its importance in his achievements.

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There is no special secret to my victory, other than the encouragement I received.