The 24-year became the first man in history to score 700 out of a possible 720 in the 72-arrow format.

He pipped the mark of 699 achieved by fellow countryman Im Dong-hyun at London 2012.

This means he will be number one seed for knock-out elimination action when it is due to begin on Monday (August 8).

United States' Brady Ellison qualified in second place with 690 points.

David Pasqualucci of Italy shot 685 for third.

The Netherlands' Sjef van den Berg and India's Atanu Das placed fourth and fifth, with 684 and 683 respectively.

“I practised more than everyone else and I gave my best for the entire round,” said Kim.

“Tomorrow there is a more important match, in terms of celebrating today - I want to focus on tomorrow’s match.”

Kim will aim to convert his form into medals tomorrow when he shoots alongside Ku Bonchan and Lee Seungyun in the team competition.

Ellison's US team are seeded second and defending champions Italy third.

Pasqualucci, making his debut in the Olympics, will be joined by London winners Mauro Nespoli and Marco Galiazzo. 

Australia, France, China, Taiwan and Spain complete the top eight-ranked teams.

Elimination and ranking round action are scheduled to place tomorrow.

Light winds and artificial lighting are expected to pose an additional challenge in an iconic venue best known for hosting the annual Rio carnival.