Woo Seo-yeon, crowned Miss Korea in 2026, recently shared the spotlight with her father, former national basketball player Woo Ji-won, in a joint interview. The segment, which aired on SBS ‘Morning Wide’ on July 7th, offered a glimpse into their father-daughter relationship and Woo Seo-yeon’s journey to the prestigious title.
A Father’s Pride and a Daughter’s Journey
Arriving for the interview, Woo Seo-yeon playfully remarked on her father’s tendency to be slightly late, a trait she’s accustomed to. Woo Ji-won, introducing himself with evident pride, stated, “I am Woo Ji-won, former national basketball player, and now the father of 2026 Miss Korea Jin, Woo Seo-yeon.” He recounted the emotional moment his daughter’s name was called, describing a reaction akin to hitting a game-winning three-pointer, which surprised those around him.
Woo Seo-yeon shared her own feelings, admitting that the reality of winning didn’t immediately sink in. She revealed a long-standing insecurity about her height, which she often attributed to her father. “When I was younger, and even while preparing for the Miss Korea pageant, my height was my biggest complex. I often told my dad, ‘It’s because of you that I’m this tall,'” she confessed.
Her father, standing at an imposing 193cm (approximately 6’4″), responded with a laugh, saying he could always talk about his daughter’s height when asked. Woo Seo-yeon, now 175cm (approximately 5’9″), explained how her perspective shifted during her pageant preparation. “While preparing for Miss Korea, I even wore very high heels, and that’s when I realized my height could be a real asset. I feel apologetic for how I felt before, and I’m grateful you gave me this height,” she told her father.
The interview also featured a touching video clip of Woo Ji-won holding his newborn daughter, Woo Seo-yeon, 24 years prior. Seeing the footage, Woo Ji-won’s eyes welled up. “It was the first time I met her, an unforgettable day. To see her grow up so well,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. He added that life has been hectic since her Miss Korea win, with days blurring together due to her busy schedule.
A Glimpse into the Past and Present
When shown the video of himself holding her as a baby, Woo Seo-yeon expressed surprise, stating, “I’m seeing this for the first time.” She conveyed her deep gratitude to her father for his unwavering support and encouragement throughout her life. “I think I was able to persevere and not give up because you always watched over me and cheered me on. I’m so thankful. I will work hard to become a daughter you can be proud of,” she pledged.
Woo Ji-won, a legendary figure in Korean basketball, has transitioned into a coaching role. His daughter’s victory in the Miss Korea pageant has brought renewed attention to the family. The pageant, officially known as the Miss Korea Beauty Pageant, is one of South Korea’s most prestigious beauty competitions, with a history dating back to 1957. It aims to select women who embody beauty, intelligence, and grace, often serving as a platform for contestants to pursue careers in various fields, including entertainment and public service.
The Miss Korea Pageant: A Legacy of Aspirations
The Miss Korea pageant has been a significant cultural event in South Korea for decades. It involves multiple rounds of judging that assess not only physical appearance but also contestants’ poise, talent, and communication skills. Winners often become public figures, participating in various promotional activities and charity events. The competition has seen many participants go on to successful careers in television, film, and modeling.
Addressing Speculation and Maintaining Silence
Following her crowning as Miss Korea, Woo Seo-yeon found herself at the center of public discussion regarding her appearance. Online speculation arose when old footage of her from a childhood television appearance resurfaced. Some observers suggested that her facial changes might be due to more than just weight loss, hinting at cosmetic procedures. Despite these discussions, Woo Seo-yeon has remained silent on the matter, choosing not to issue a formal statement addressing the rumors.
This period of intense public scrutiny comes at a time when Woo Seo-yeon is expected to fulfill her duties as Miss Korea. The role typically involves representing the country at international events and engaging in various public service initiatives. Her father’s public support and her own expressed determination to make him proud suggest a strong foundation as she navigates this new chapter in her life.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Woo Seo-yeon
The interview with Woo Ji-won and Woo Seo-yeon highlighted a loving father-daughter bond, underscored by shared experiences and mutual admiration. While Woo Seo-yeon embraces her role as Miss Korea, she faces public speculation with quiet resilience. Her father’s legacy in sports and her own aspirations set the stage for a promising future, as she aims to live up to the title and her father’s expectations.
