Kim Dae-hyun Visits 2024 Senior Badminton League, Pledges Support for Aging Athletes
Kim Dae-hyun, the second minister of South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, visited the 2024 Senior Badminton League event in Seoul on Friday, marking the largest-scale domestic competition for players aged 50 and older. The minister’s attendance was confirmed by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, which stated the visit aimed to “highlight the importance of lifelong sports participation.”
The event, held at the Seoul Sports Complex, drew over 1,200 participants from across the country, according to the Korean Badminton Association (KBA). Kim Dong-moon, the KBA president, confirmed the minister’s presence, noting that Kim Dae-hyun “expressed strong support for programs that enable senior athletes to remain active.” No official date was provided for the visit, but the ministry’s press release indicated it occurred on October 20, 2024.
Kim Dae-hyun’s visit aligns with the ministry’s broader initiative to expand sports opportunities for older adults. In a statement, the ministry said, “The government is committed to fostering a society where physical activity remains accessible to all age groups.” The minister also toured the event’s exhibition area, which featured adaptive sports equipment and community wellness programs.
Why This Matters: Senior Sports Programs Gain National Attention
The senior badminton league has grown significantly since its inception in 2015, with participation increasing by 210% through 2024, according to KBA records. The event’s scale reflects a national trend: South Korea’s aging population—projected to reach 30% by 2025—has spurred demand for age-inclusive sports initiatives. Kim Dae-hyun’s visit underscores the government’s recognition of this demographic shift.
The ministry’s 2024 budget allocated 12.7 billion won ($9.8 million) to senior sports programs, a 15% increase from the previous year. This includes funding for local leagues, training facilities, and health screenings. “Sports are not just about competition,” Kim Dae-hyun said during a press briefing. “They’re about maintaining independence and community engagement for older adults.”
Key Figures: Growth of Senior Badminton in South Korea
- Participants (2015): 380
- Participants (2024): 1,200+
- Regional Teams: 42
- Age Range: 50–85 years
- Government Funding (2024): 12.7 billion won
The event’s expansion has also boosted local economies. Seoul’s Sports Complex reported a 25% increase in visitor spending compared to 2023, with many attendees traveling from regional cities. “This isn’t just a sports event—it’s a cultural phenomenon,” said Lee Young-jae, a 68-year-old player from Busan. “It’s given us a reason to stay active and connect with others.”
What’s Next: Expansion Plans and Policy Implications
The ministry announced plans to pilot a national senior sports certification program in 2025, which would provide standardized training for coaches and instructors. The KBA is also working on a digital platform to streamline league registrations and match scheduling. “We want to make it easier for seniors to participate,” said Kim Dong-moon. “This is about breaking down barriers.”
Health experts have praised the initiative. Dr. Park Soo-jin, a geriatrician at Seoul National University Hospital, noted that regular physical activity reduces fall risks by 30% in older adults. “Badminton, in particular, improves balance and mental agility,” she said. “This event is a model for other countries.”
How to Follow: Official Resources and Upcoming Events
Details about the 2024 Senior Badminton League are available on the Korean Badminton Association’s website (
