South Korean sharpshooter Kim Ye-ji, who captivated audiences with her cool demeanor and effortless shooting style during the summer Olympics, has now added a new feather to her cap as one of the stars of Balenciaga’s latest campaign.
The 32-year-old Olympic silver medalist joins the likes of Romeo Beckham and singer Kim Petras in a striking series of photographs set against the backdrop of Paris. The campaign, shot by renowned photographer Juergen Teller, features models lounging or posing on an eclectic collection of furniture sourced from Balenciaga creative director Demna’s personal collection.
Titled “This is a Balenciaga Campaign,” the visuals perfectly align with Teller’s iconic deadpan aesthetic—a fitting match for Kim’s signature inscrutable cool. As per the sources of Leaders, Kim first drew widespread attention during the Paris 2024 Olympics for her futuristic eyewear and relaxed yet focused shooting stance. Earlier, a viral video of her breaking a world record in Azerbaijan had already cemented her status as a sports icon.
Since her Olympic success, Kim has seamlessly transitioned into the world of fashion and entertainment. She has appeared in a Louis Vuitton photoshoot for W Korea magazine and taken on a role as an assassin in the TV series Crush.
According to the reports of Leaders sources, in Balenciaga’s campaign, Kim trades her black Fila sportswear for chic high-fashion looks, including a denim bomber jacket paired with thigh-high cut-off jeans and a sleek black mini dress. The campaign focuses on the brand’s latest handbags, showcasing Kim’s versatility beyond the shooting range.
Despite her growing fashion and acting portfolio, Kim describes her personal style as simple and understated. “I dress super plain, simple. But people tell me I look good,” she revealed that her wardrobe typically consists of crop tops, jeans, and her team uniform.
The campaign, a collaboration between Teller and his creative partner and wife, Dovile Drizyte, also features Beckham reclining on a white sectional near the Eiffel Tower, Petras posing on floral-patterned furniture on a Parisian street, and other models like Sua Lee, Khadim Sock, and Akolde Meen. Beckham, the second son of David and Victoria Beckham, surprised fashion fans earlier this year by making his runway debut for Balenciaga during Paris Fashion Week.
Kim Ye-ji’s inclusion in this star-studded campaign is a testament to her growing global appeal, proving that her sharp eye and unique aura extend far beyond the shooting range.
