"I really don't have much experience internationally, and in the few that I went to last year, I didn't do so well," he said. "This week, I wanted to make sure I had no regrets. I don't really believe people when they say something feels like a dream, but this victory does feel like a dream."

With his first world title in the bag, Jeong has already turned his eyes toward the next Summer Olympics in Tokyo in three years' time.

"The Tokyo Olympics always seemed so far away," he said. "But now I think I've gotten close (to qualifying for it). I don't know what tournaments I'll be entering in the future, but I want to keep accumulating points and make it to the Tokyo Olympics."

Before the start of the competition, Jeong wasn't seen as among the medal contenders. He said even he didn't expect himself to do so well, but he was just glad his hard work paid dividends here.

"I train with such great teammates, and they've been helping me along the way and giving me great advice," Jeong said. "I've learned so much from them and I wanted to win one for them."

Jeong said his fighting style may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, nor is he particularly savvy or skilled. But one thing that he can do is battle hard.

"I wanted to be as feisty as I could be," Jeong said. "And I enjoyed competing at home. I really fed off the fans' energy."

Against Artamonov, Jeong led 17-7 midway through, and was up 22-17 with about 30 seconds remaining. The Russian got in a three-point kick to get to within two. Jeong pulled ahead with a two-point kick, but then conceded three straight points to Artamonov with "gam-jeoms," or deduction penalties.

Jeong barely avoided getting struck and giving up what could have been a decisive point.

"I've blown leads and lost in late moments quite often," Jeong said. "And I think I was able to learn from those mistakes, and I had confidence that I could hold on this time." (Yonhap)