An Ba-ul emerged as a force in international judo by securing the 2015 world title in the half-lightweight division, marking South Korea's first champion in that weight class in over a decade. A student of Yong In University, he established himself as a practitioner of tactical engagement and the versatile seoi nage technique.
Early Competitive Development
Born in Seoul in 1994, An Ba-ul entered international competition at the age of 16 during the 2009 World Cadet Championships in Budapest. His development continued at the 2011 World Junior Championships in Cape Town, where he secured a silver medal in the extra-lightweight category. A major breakthrough followed at the 2013 World Junior Championships in Ljubljana, where he defeated Diyorbek Urozboev to claim the junior world championship title.
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An began his full-time transition to the senior level in 2014, participating in tournaments including the Grand Prix in Jeju and the Grand Slam in Tokyo. His senior career is defined by high-intensity bouts against established champions, such as Masashi Ebinuma and Georgii Zantaraia. By 2015, he solidified his standing with a victory at the European Open in Warsaw and a successful outing at the Asian Championships in Kuwait City.
Technical Proficiency
His combat profile is characterized by the application of technical combinations. He frequently utilizes variations of the seoi nage—specifically the drop seoi nage—to secure scoring opportunities. His tactical approach often involves layering techniques, such as combining kosoto gari with seoi nage or transitioning from ashi waza into newaza. As of 7 September 2021, these methods contributed to his position as the top-ranked judoka globally.
Fast facts
- Born: 1994, Seoul
- Sport: Judo
- Education: Yong In University
- Citizenship: South Korea
- 2015 World Champion (Half-lightweight)
- Key Technique: Seoi nage
Questions readers ask
What is An Ba-ul's primary weight category?
He competes in the half-lightweight division, which is limited to 66 kg.
Where did he receive his higher education?
He attended Yong In University in South Korea.
Achievements
- Competed at judo at the 2016 Summer Olympics – men's 66 kg, judo at the 2020 Summer Olympics – men's 66 kg and 2022 Judo Grand Prix Almada
- Discipline: judo
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