13-Year-Old Wrestler Asks President to Open Special Forces

A 13-year-old wrestling phenom is rewriting what's possible for women in South Korea's military. Lim Ha-kyung didn't just ask for permission to serve her country—she wrote a handwritten letter to the president demanding it.

Lim, who lives in Chilgok-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, trains as a freestyle wrestler at Daegu Sports Middle School. This year alone, she won three gold medals and one silver at national competitions, often defeating opponents who didn't expect her strength.

But medals aren't her only goal. When local residents gathered to celebrate her achievements on October 10th, Lim shared a dream that stunned the room: win Olympic gold, then volunteer to enlist in the military.

"Fulfilling the national defense duty is an even more valuable medal than an Olympic gold medal," Lim told the gathering. She specifically wants to join the Navy's special intelligence unit, known as UDU, one of South Korea's most elite forces.

There's just one problem. Women aren't currently allowed in the UDU. So last December, Lim took matters into her own hands and wrote directly to President Lee Jae-myung.

"Mr. President, I am Lim Ha-kyung, a girl who wrestles," her letter read. "Please allow women to enter the UDU special forces. I will work hard and also win an Olympic gold medal. I will await your reply."

Her story comes at a crucial moment. South Korea is currently debating military service exemptions for Asian Games medalists, and Lim's willingness to serve voluntarily has sparked nationwide conversation about expanding opportunities for women in the armed forces.

Why This Inspires

Lim's request carries extra weight because she's not asking for less—she's asking for more. While some athletes seek exemptions from mandatory service, this teenage girl is requesting the chance to serve in one of the most demanding roles available.

Her wrestling credentials prove she's serious. As an elementary school student, she defeated male competitors to win championships, showing the physical capability critics might question.

The mayor of Chilgok-gun pledged to support both of Lim's dreams: Olympic gold and military service. Across South Korea, people are rallying behind her message that protecting your country is an honor, not a burden.

Lim's letter remains unanswered, but her determination has already won something bigger than a response. She's opened a national conversation about what service means and who gets to participate in defending their country.