The last stage of 'Queen of Volleyball' Kim Yeon-koung concluded successfully in front of many fans. Fans who came to see his 'last dance' were able to see Kim Yeon-koung transform into a 'coach.' Volleyball teammates sent their support for Kim Yeon-koung's new look and new beginning.
On the 18th, Kim Yeon-koung played for the last time in front of fans over two days at the 'KYK Invitational 2025' held at Incheon Samsan World Gymnasium. On the 17th, he played with world all-star players against the Korean women's volleyball national team, and on the 18th, he faced 'Team World' led by former Heungkuk Life Insurance coach Marcello Abondanza as a coach and player.
After each set, there were congratulatory performances by singers and cheerleaders' stages. Many fans enjoyed it, and the cheers grew louder every time Kim Yeon-koung took the court. Friends, such as Kim Su-ji (Heungkuk Life Insurance) and Yang Hyo-jin (Hyundai E&C), who played in the V League together, watched as Kim Yeon-koung took her last steps on the court as a player.
The game between 'Team Star' and 'Team World' has concluded. The result was Team Star winning 80–63. Following this, a bouquet presentation ceremony for world all-star players and a performance by the Duo Dynamic took place, marking the end of the 'KYK Invitational 2025.'
Kim Yeon-koung spoke with reporters in the interview room along with Jordan Larson (38, United States) and Eda Erdem (37, Turkey). In this interview, insights were shared about her feelings after finishing the 'KYK Invitational 2025' event and her thoughts on her future career.
Kim Yeon-koung, who said, “Today was my last game as a player,” noted, “I waited for this, and I prepared a lot. It feels bittersweet.” About her transformation into a coach, she added, “The coaching position is not easy. I served as a coach today, played as a player, and did media interviews. I took on many roles. I know the role of a coach is not easy. I had thoughts about becoming a leader, but it was a good experience.”
Kim Yeon-koung, who plans to spend some time recharging, shared her thoughts on her 'transformation into a leader.' She said, “I talked with volleyball friends about life after retirement. They told me many directions like administration and broadcasting are possible,” and mentioned, “I think I can do what I want.”
Jordan Larson (United States), Kim Yeon-koung's 'volleyball friend,' commented on her transition to coaching, saying, “As Kim Yeon-koung said, the coaching position is not easy. She was impressive as a volleyball player and was an excellent athlete. Considering her personality, she seems like she would be a good leader as a coach. She brings out the best in players. She will do well.”
Erdem stated, “She is a true legend. The volleyball world will miss her greatly. Although her career as a player has ended, she will surely have good opportunities and succeed after this. I will keep in touch and support her,” and emphasized, “She was our team’s coach today. I truly believe Kim Yeon-koung will be a good leader. She was a positive player even when she was playing. She has the qualities to teach players how to succeed. Not everyone has such qualities. I believe she will succeed at anything she does.”
Kim Yeon-koung has extensive experience in overseas leagues and has represented Korean women's volleyball for a long time in the V League. Many fans are interested in her future endeavors. Kim Yeon-koung shared, “If I become a coach, I think I could receive help. I will keep my options open and think about various things.”
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