Seoul Badminton Champion Honored at Presidential Ceremony
Top-ranked women’s singles badminton player An Se-young accepted the 4.19 Democratic Uprising Peace Award at the presidential office in Seoul on April 17. The accolade recognizes her public disclosure of illegal hiring practices by the vice president within the badminton federation.
During the 7th annual 4.19 ceremony, An Se-young addressed the audience, stating, “This award is not my personal achievement but the result of the hard work and passion of many people who joined me.” She emphasized, “Even during busy times, seeing myself honored shows the nation’s true meaning to dedicated individuals.”
An Se-young added, “I feel grateful and proud that the purpose of this award remains alive, expanding in various directions. I am committed to living up to it.”
4.19 Commemoration Group Highlights Significance
Organizers of the 4.19 Democratic Uprising Commemoration Association noted that the award goes beyond standard presidential recognition. “The decision to specially select her stems from her contributions post-Paris Olympics amid the vice president’s hiring scandal,” they explained.
They further stated, “An Se-young returned a medal earned at the Paris Olympics, along with other awards like deputy team leader and cooperative director roles, publicly exposing irregularities.”
Award Marks 60th Anniversary Milestone
The ceremony commemorates the 60th anniversary of the 4.19 Revolution, hosted by Seoul National University Student Council. Recipients receive 50 million won in prize money and trophies.
