Khishgee Boldsukh (Department of Physical Education, 2nd year)
Pursuing his dream in Korea
Born in Mongolia, Boldsukh came to Korea at the age of eleven, after his grandparents passed away. As Boldsukh’s mother was living in Korea at the time, he came to the country in the need of a guardian. As soon as he arrived in Korea, Boldsukh entered Sahwa Elementary School and joined the basketball team, which was the start of his career as a basketball player in Korea. Moving onto Palryong Middle School and Masan High School, Boldsukh pursued his career by joining both schools' basketball teams.
Although Boldsukh was allowed to play on basketball teams, it was his nationality as a foreigner that prevented him from playing in regular leagues such as the National Sports Festival. Boldsukh’s nationality also presented additional hardships such as not being covered by national health insurance and many complications related to documentation paperwork. However, such difficulties did not prevent Boldsukh from pursuing his dream, and he was admitted to Hanyang University in 2018, based on his exceptional basketball skills.
Becoming a key player
Even after his admission to Hanyang University, Boldsukh was not allowed to play in last year’s University League due to the regulations on foreign players. It was only after Boldsukh received his Korean citizenship in October of 2018 that he was able to register as a player, finally making his debut in the 2019 KUSF University League. According to Boldsukh, last year was a difficult season for not only himself but also for the Hanyang University team itself, as he had to watch the team failing to make it to the playoffs from the bench.
However, with Boldsukh joining the team, the outlook for the team seemed to be bright this season. “Our team members have formed a close relationship, which resulted in showing great teamwork. We also are specialized at swift attacks based on a strong defense,” answered Boldsukh, when asked about the strengths of Hanyang University team. As for his individual performance, Boldsukh gave the credit to his teammates, explaining how basketball is a team game, and that it was their great support that led to his outstanding performance.
Boldsukh is playing a pivotal role on the team in that his outstanding performance is earning high scores and raising their rankings. As of April 8th, Boldsukh has scored a total of 81 points, 21 points on average per game, which makes him the highest scorer among Hanyang players, and third in the league's individual player scoring chart. Even his defensive contributions are high with Boldsukh managing to make a total of nine steals throughout the first four games, which places him sixth out of all the players.
As for his goal at Hanyang University, Boldsukh has showed his hopes towards winning the University League. Going further, his dream is to join a professional team after graduation, eventually becoming a member of the Korean National Basketball Team. In the short run, however, Boldsukh’s main focus is to take the team to the playoffs this year and help his current teammates have a successful season. Meeting Kyunghee University on April 24th as their next opponent, Boldsukh's passion will once again be seen, doing his best to help the team achieve its next victory.
Choi Seo-yong tjdyd1@hanyang.ac.kr
Photos by Park Guen-hyung
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tjdyd1@daum.net