Following a national performance of 7774 points, he attended the 2007 Asian Athletics Championships but failed to match his home form, finishing in fifth place. The 2007 World Championships in Athletics held in Osaka saw Kim make his debut on the global stage. He achieved bests in the pole vault and 110 metres hurdles and finished in 21st place. In spite of his low finishing place, he was the fastest athlete in the field in the final 1500 metres event.