At that time, media of different countries reported that Kye Sun Hui of the DPRK beat her Japanese rival known as a world star, beyond the expectations of all spectators. And they praised her as a superstar of women's judo world and the laurel-wreathed heroine of Olympic Games.

Kye won four consecutive victories in the World Judo Championships held in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2007. She also bagged gold medals in 1997 and 1999 Asian Judo Championships, the 13th Asian Games and other international tournaments.

She grabbed a bronze in the 27th Olympic Games and silvers in the 28th Olympic Games and the World Judo Championships in 1997.

She was awarded the title of People's Athlete in 1996, the title of DPRK Labor Hero in 2001 and Kim Il Sung Prize in 2003.