South Korea’s women’s badminton team clinches a spot in the 2026 Uber Cup by defeating China in a gripping final match at the qualifiers in Horsens, Denmark, on May 3 at 5 p.m. KST.
Path to the Final
The Korean squad advances to its third Uber Cup appearance, following outings in 2010 and 2022. Starting strong, the team dominates the group stage against Spain, Bulgaria, and Thailand, securing 15 straight wins without dropping a game in the ‘perfect game’ format.
In the round of 8, Korea overcomes Denmark 3-1. The semifinals see a 3-1 victory over Indonesia, setting up the high-stakes final against powerhouse China.
China enters with momentum, dispatching Malaysia 3-0 in the round of 8 and Japan 3-0 in the semifinals.
Decisive Singles and Doubles Battles
World No. 1 An Se-young (Samsung Life Insurance) leads off with a commanding performance against Wang Zhi Yi, taking the first set 19-5 while maintaining an eight-point lead throughout the intense rally.
The second match features mixed doubles duo Jeong Na-eun (Hwaseong Gunchung) and Lee So-hui (Incheon Airport).
Third singles pits Kim Ga-eun (Samsung Life Insurance) against China’s Chen Yufei, renewing their rivalry from prior encounters.
Fourth doubles showcases Baek Ha-na (Incheon Airport) and Kim Hye-jeong (Samsung Life Insurance).
Sim Yu-jin (Incheon Airport) seals the victory in the decisive fifth match.
Chen Yufei’s Praise for Korean Mentality
Post-match, Chen Yufei highlights the Korean team’s resilience. “I want to tell my teammates to maintain that mental strength even against such formidable opponents and give their best effort,” she states. “Everyone receives immense support. I believe our players can achieve the top result.”
This win positions South Korea for a strong showing at the 2026 Uber Cup, building on early qualifier dominance.
