Athlete. Defender. Hero. Forever 28. On April 22, 2025, while carrying out a combat mission near the village of Orikhovo-Vasylivka in the Bakhmut district of Donetsk region, Lieutenant of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, platoon commander of a mechanized company in a mechanized battalion — Suong Artem Thea — was killed in action.
Artem Suong was a renowned Wushu master, a champion, and a worthy representative of Ukraine on the world stage — and a worthy defender of his homeland in its struggle against the invaders. He was born on July 25, 1996, in Kyiv. His athletic journey began as a young boy at the Wushu Sports School in Brovary, training in the “Svitlotekhnik” gym under the guidance of his first and only coach, Honored Coach of Ukraine Andrii Koval. Under his mentorship, Artem not only achieved victories — he forged character.
Throughout his sports career, Suong Artem Thea earned the title of International Master of Sports of Ukraine and had been a member of the national Wushu team since 2013. He became a five-time national champion among juniors and youth, and an eight-time national champion among adults. He was a three-time European champion (2014, 2016, 2018), a bronze medalist at the 2017 World Championship, and the holder of the World Cup. His technique was flawless, and his performances were remembered even by those who saw them only once. He didn’t just win — he inspired.
When the full-scale war came to Ukraine, Artem joined the ranks of defenders, standing guard in the east against the Russian onslaught. As a lieutenant, he served as a platoon commander. On the battlefield, as on the sports arena, he was genuine — composed, strong in both body and spirit.
On June 9, 2025, Lieutenant Suong Artem Thea was posthumously awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, 3rd Class. During his service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Hero also received the “Silver Cross” distinction from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the distinction from the Commander of the Operational Tactical Group “Luhansk.” He was also awarded the “Defender of the East” medal.
His friends called him a “warrior of light.” Every memory of him radiates warmth, respect, and love: “You were a true example of humanity, bravery, and unbreakable spirit. You always radiated joy, supported others in their darkest moments, and never gave up. You will forever remain in our hearts and memories. Carried home on your shield…”
Eternal memory. Heroes never die.