South Korean badminton star Seo Seung-jae is drawing attention for his recent philanthropic efforts. The South Korean national team player has made significant donations to two causes close to his heart: improving neonatal intensive care and supporting the development of young badminton players.
According to the Korea Badminton Association on July 9, Seo donated a substantial sum—reportedly at least 50 million KRW (approximately $36,000)—split between Bundang Seoul National University Hospital and the association. His donation to the hospital was made in gratitude for his son Seo Yi-jun’s first birthday, expressing thanks for the child’s health and a desire to share that joy with society. The funds will be used to enhance medical infrastructure for high-risk newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Meanwhile, his contribution to the badminton association will support junior athletes, helping them train and grow in a stable environment through expanded programs and resources.
Seo, a left-handed doubles specialist, has been a key player for the national team since 2017. He played a pivotal role in South Korea’s Sudirman Cup (World Mixed Team Championship) victory that year in Gold Coast, Australia. In 2023, he dominated the World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark, winning both men’s doubles (with Kang Min-hyuk) and mixed doubles (with Chae Yu-jung). Currently ranked world No. 3 in men’s doubles with partner Kim Won-ho, Seo is focusing solely on the discipline ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.