Kim Ki-soo

Kim Ki-soo (; September 17, 1939 – June 10, 1997) was a South Korean professional boxer who competed from 1961 to 1969. He was South Korea's first world boxing champion, having held the undisputed World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Council (WBC) super-welterweight titles from 1966 to 1968.

Amateur career Kim graduated from Kyung Hee University's College of Physical Education. He went on to represent South Korea as a welterweight at the 1960 Rome Olympic Games, where he defeated Henry Perry (Ireland) on points, but then lost to Nino Benvenuti (Italy) on points.

Professional career Kim turned professional in 1961, winning the South Korean Junior Middleweight title on his pro debut. He captured the WBC, WBA and Lineal light middleweight title when he upset Nino Benvenuti by split decision in 1966. He defended the belt twice before losing it to Sandro Mazzinghi in 1968 by split decision. He retired the following year.

Later life After his retirement, Kim worked as a boxing coach. He later started his own company, and was successful in business. He died of liver cancer on 10 June 1997, at the age of 57. He was survived by his wife Jeong Ha-ja (鄭夏子), two sons, and two daughters.

Professional boxing record

Titles in boxing Major world titles WBA light middleweight champion (154 lbs) WBC light middleweight champion (154 lbs)

Regional/International titles South Korea middleweight champion (160 lbs) OPBF middleweight champion (160 lbs) (2×)

Undisputed titles Undisputed light middleweight champion