In July 2006, he fought his first match abroad at the International Conference Hall in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan, where he lost to Makyo Sugita by unanimous decision after 10 rounds.

In May 2008, he fought his first United States match in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he defeated Georgian born Koba Gogoladze by technical knockout in the first round.

Kim survived a series of punishing blows from his opponent before knocking him down with a devastating left hook, ultimately finishing the match with a flurry of punches moments later.

On February 12, 2010, Kim fought national amateur champion Tyrone Harris as part of the Friday Night Fights main event.

[1] Kim lost his first fight in four years on August 15, 2010, to Miguel Vázquez for the vacant IBF Lightweight title by unanimous decision.