HANGZHOU, China -- North Korean weightlifters Ri Song Gum and Kang Hyong Yong set women's world records at the Asian Games on Saturday as the reclusive nation dominated the opening day of the competition.
Ri lifted 92 kilograms in the snatch and 124 kilograms in the clean and jerk -- a world record in the category -- for a combined 216 kilograms (476.2 pounds) to win the gold medal in the 49-kilogram weight category. That eclipsed the previous combined mark of 215 kilograms set by China's Jiang Huihua during the world championships in Saudi Arabia three weeks ago.
Kang posted a combined 233 kilograms (513.7 pounds) to win the 55-kilogram division title, smashing the 2019 record of 227 kilograms set by China's Liao Qiuyun.
Kang lifted 103 kilograms in the snatch and 130 kilograms in the clean and jerk, each world records in their category.
The 25-year-old Ri's triumph came five years after she won gold in the 48-kilogram category at the Jakarta Asian Games. That category no longer exists.
"I feel like my efforts in training were not in vain, and I would like to thank my coach and my people," said Ri, who cried on the podium.
Previous record-holder Jiang took the silver behind Ri with a combined total of 213 kilograms.
Kang shared the podium with silver-medal-winning compatriot Ri Su Yon, who had a combined 222 kilograms in the 55-kilogram division.