Lin Xiaojun Siblings: Get to Know Lim Hyo-chan

Lin Xiaojun is a prominent short track speed skater, born as Lim Hyo-jun on May 29, 1996, in Daegu, South Korea.

He gained international fame representing South Korea, most notably by winning the gold medal in the men’s 1500m event at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, where he also secured a bronze in the 500m.

Following controversies and a shift in his career, he underwent naturalization and has since competed for China under the name Lin Xiaojun since 2021, contributing to the Chinese team’s successes in various international competitions, including World Cup events and preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Siblings

Lin has a younger brother named Lim Hyo-chan, born on December 6, 2001.

However, information about his family remains relatively private, with public details primarily focusing on his parents, Lim Jae-ho and Kwak Da-yeon.

Career

Xiaojun began his athletic journey initially as a swimmer before transitioning to short track speed skating at a young age, despite facing early injuries including damage to his tympanum.

He burst onto the international scene by claiming gold in the boys’ 1000m at the 2012 Winter Youth Olympics.

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Rising through the ranks in South Korea, he became a key member of the national team, achieving standout performances that culminated in his historic Olympic success in 2018.

A major incident in 2019 involving an alleged prank led to disciplinary actions by the Korea Skating Union, a suspension, and legal proceedings that were eventually resolved in his favor.

This prompted his decision to naturalize as a Chinese citizen in 2020, renouncing his South Korean citizenship.

After eligibility clearance, he debuted internationally for China in the 2022-23 ISU World Cup season, quickly securing multiple medals, including golds in the 500m at events in Dresden and Dordrecht.

He has since become a vital asset to China’s short track program, often training and competing alongside other naturalized talents, and positioning himself for strong showings at major events like the Winter Asian Games and the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics.

Accolades

Xiaojun’s most celebrated achievement is the gold medal in the men’s 1500m and bronze in the 500m at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

He also earned gold at the 2012 Winter Youth Olympics in the boys’ 1000m.

In senior competitions, he has won multiple ISU World Cup golds, including in the 500m and contributions to relay successes, as well as other podium finishes in World Cup series.

He is recognized as a world champion-level athlete and has been noted for accomplishments that make him one of the few to secure golds across the Winter Olympics, Winter Youth Olympics, World Championships, World Cup, and Asian Winter Games levels.