The South Korean won silver in the women’s epee category A, on her Paralympic debut. 

But Kwon, who is preparing to compete at her home World Championships in Iksan from 2-8 September, has her sights set on more. 

“Winning the medal made me realize the importance of working even harder, ” Kwon said. “It also inspired me to set bigger goals for myself. I’m now dedicating myself to training each and every day.” 

Standing on the podium at the Grand Palais, Kwon’s first thought was not her achievement, but rather the city’s most famous landmark: 

“I did my best in every match to reach the finals. When the medal was placed around my neck, I was so excited to see Eiffel Tower on it. My dream was to stand in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and this is so great to have a medal with Eiffel Tower design on it.” 

Looking ahead to Iksan 2025, the second time a World Championships will be held in South Korea after 2019 and several World Cups and youth Worlds, Kwon is taking the weight of expectation in her stride. 

“I always think you never really know how a match will go until you actually play it. I do not just train for the World Championships. I always train hard for every competition, both international and national tournaments. I will do my best at this World Championships as well.” 

But a medal at home would mean something for the 24-year-old, adding to her achievements so far. 

“I am truly grateful that I could give my parents a meaningful gift. I hope to continue working hard and achieve greater success so I can bring even more joy and pride to them as their daughter.” 

Kwon and her teammates will be amongst more than 240 fencers who will compete at the Iksan 2025 Para Fencing World Championships from 2-7 September. Athletes will go for medals and titles in the men’s and women’s epee, foil and sabre category A and B, men’s epee and foil category C, and team titles in all three weapons.