Kim Dong-sung's Life Not in Danger... Extreme Choice Status Not Yet Confirmed (Comprehensive)

Short track national team member Kim Dong-sung (41) was found in a state of impaired consciousness and received treatment at a hospital. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Hana Na] Kim Dong-sung (41), a former national short track speed skating representative, was found in a state of impaired consciousness after taking sleeping pills and received treatment at a hospital, confirmed on the 28th.

Kim was discovered collapsed by an acquaintance at his home in Yongin-si, Gyeonggi Province, around 3:30 PM on the 27th and was transported to the hospital by 119 emergency responders.

At the time, Kim had taken sleeping pills, and it was reported that his life was not in danger.

It is known that Kim attempted an extreme act related to recent conflicts over child support with his ex-wife, from whom he is divorced, but whether it was an actual suicide attempt has not yet been confirmed.

A fire department official stated, "Since this is a matter related to personal information, we cannot provide detailed information," and added, "We also do not know whether an extreme act was attempted."

On the 24th, Kim posted on his girlfriend’s Instagram, saying, "I believe we must overcome this not through emotional fights but through wise methods, thinking only of the child," and "Even if I am branded a bad father, I will sincerely run towards providing child support."

He also addressed his ex-wife, saying, "(Regarding the Nagano Winter Olympics) Mom misses the gold medal very much," and "I couldn’t bring my belongings at the time of the divorce, but even if I give up my belongings, please return the gold medal."

Kim’s girlfriend’s Instagram was switched to private on the same day.

Meanwhile, Kim, who divorced in 2018, recently appeared on TV Chosun’s program "We Got Divorced" and directly addressed allegations that he was not properly providing child support for his ex-wife and children.

※ If you or someone around you is struggling with difficult issues such as depression, you can receive 24-hour professional counseling through suicide prevention hotlines ☎1577-0199, Hope Phone ☎129, Life Phone ☎1588-9191, and Youth Phone ☎1388.