Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Life | Born in Korea; selected for the national judo team in 1973 as a Korean-American; dreams curtailed by injury. |
| Career | Accomplished judo player with a gold medal win in 1974; later managed a business in Osaka and appeared on television. |
| Net Worth | No public information available. |
| Family | Married to Ryu Eun-hwa; father to Choo Seong-hoon (Yoshihiro Akiyama) and Choo Jung-hwa; grandfather to Choo Sarang. |
| Death | Passed away on April 18, 2023, at age 72 due to sudden cardiac arrest while playing golf. |
| Social Media | Remembered by family tributes, notably an emotional Instagram post by his son, Choo Seong-hoon. |
Early Life and Background
Early judo career of Choo Gye Yi was determined and promising. His early 1970s national competitions laid the stage for a career of international ambition.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth and Origin | Born in Korea, with formative years shaped by his cultural heritage and early exposure to judo. |
| 1973 National Event | Represented as a Korean-American in the national judo competition, earning a position on the national standing army. |
| Injury Setback | A broken ankle during rigorous training at Taereung Athlete’s Village significantly impacted his athletic pursuits. |
Career Trajectory
Choo Gye Yi rapidly distinguished himself in judo by earning a 1974 gold medal. He did business and appeared on TV with his famous kid in addition to his sporting achievements.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Judo Success | Achieved a notable gold medal win in 1974, showcasing exceptional skill and commitment to the sport. |
| Business Endeavor | Managed a business in Osaka, known colloquially as a “bone,” illustrating his entrepreneurial spirit after retiring from competition. |
| Media Presence | Appeared on television broadcasts, fostering a public presence and sharing memorable moments with his son on popular shows. |
Family and Personal Life
The Choo Gye Yi family had a strong sports and public life background. His family’s successes commemorate his heritage and are intertwined with his life.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Married to Ryu Eun-hwa, a former swimmer born in 1954, contributing to the family’s athletic tradition. |
| Children | Father of Choo Seong-hoon (also known as Yoshihiro Akiyama), a celebrated mixed martial artist and judoka, and Choo Jung-hwa, born in 1981. |
| Extended Family | His daughter-in-law, Shiho Yano, is a Japanese fashion model, and his granddaughter, Choo Sarang, has gained recognition on television. |
Final Moments and Legacy
The end of Choo Gye Yi’s life was unexpected and touching. His death on April 18, 2023, while playing golf touched his family and fans, triggering passionate tributes on social media.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Passing | Died on April 18, 2023, at the age of 72. |
| Circumstances | Suffered sudden cardiac arrest while engaging in a game of golf, marking an abrupt end to a celebrated life. |
| Legacy | Remembered fondly through social media tributes, particularly a moving Instagram post by his son, and ongoing reverence in family and community circles. |
FAQ
What were Choo Gye Yi’s judo highlights?
Choo Gye Yi won a gold medal in 1974 and competed in national judo tournaments for Korea.
How did Choo Gye Yi’s early injury effect his career?
After breaking his ankle at Taereung Athlete’s Village, he stopped competing internationally in judo.
After athletics, Choo Gye Yi ran what business?
Managing a “bone” firm in Osaka was his entrepreneurial debut after his sporting career.
Who are Choo Gye Yi’s noteworthy relatives?
His family comprises his wife, Ryu Eun-hwa, his son, Choo Seong-hoon (Yoshihiro Akiyama), a famous MMA and judoka; his daughter, Choo Jung-hwa; daughter-in-law, Shiho Yano; and granddaughter, Choo Sarang
His death occurred under what conditions?
Choo Gye Yi, 72, died of heart arrest while golfing on April 18, 2023.
On social media, how is Choo Gye Yi remembered?
Choo Seong-hoon expressed his father’s legacy and the family’s continued remembrance in a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
