My mom is South Korean
and my dad is German

Photos and story provided by Anja Schuffner

I went to German International School in Seoul until I was 13 and then continued my education in Germany and Austria.

Until I moved to Europe, I had never considered my background being different, but people always seemed to be surprised that my German was accent-free because I looked Asian. 

At home, we spoke German, Korean and English. Growing up, I always felt like I had to choose to be either German or Korean. Even today, I still have a hard time identifying as Korean, because my education was in German and I have German nationality.

But to those who don’t know me, I say I’m an Asian beauty with a German heart.”  

Growing up, I didn’t play any sports. It wasn’t until I was 31 when I discovered Strongman competitions. I attended one group class and immediately knew that this was my gift, and my passion was born. Four years later, I placed first in China and Hong Kong’s Strongest Woman competition. 

It took me many years to get over the Asian beauty standard that is drilled into our brains that ‘skinny beautiful and equal to happiness.’ I think strength is sexy and empowering.

I love that I’m not the Asian norm and get to inspire women all over Asia through these competitions and pursue sports. I enjoy representing Asian women in European and American Strongman competitions. Setting the new Asian deadlift record at 220kg was one of my happiest moments.

My training forces me to push my physical boundaries, and has taught me patience. My dream is to be the strongest version of myself that I can be, physically and mentally, and to grow strength sports in Asia.

Follow Anja’s journey on her instagram