Fukushima and Matsumoto Defeat Olympic champions Chen and Jia to Reach Korea Open Semifinals

Fourth seeds Yuki Fukushima and Mayu Matsumoto delivered a statement performance at the VICTOR SUWON Korea Open 2025, defeating Olympic champions Chen Qing Chen and Jia Yi Fan in straight games to book their place in the women’s doubles semifinals.

The match marked just the second career meeting between the two veteran pairs, their only previous clash being a three-game thriller at the 2021 Uber Cup. With Chen and Jia recently reuniting after spells with other partners, all eyes were on their form. However, they struggled to find rhythm against the experienced Japanese duo, who capitalized to win 21-19, 21-13.

The victory marks a resurgence for Fukushima and Matsumoto, who hadn’t reached a semifinal since the All England Open in March. They now prepare for an all-Japanese semifinal showdown against compatriots Rin Iwanaga and Kie Nakanishi.

The bottom half of the women’s doubles draw promises an all-Korean clash, with third seeds Baek Ha Na and Lee So Hee set to face second seeds Kim Hye Jeong and Kong Hee Yong — ensuring strong home representation in the final.

An Se Young Cruises into Semis, Eyes Eighth Title of the Season

In women’s singles, world No. 1 An Se Young stayed on course for her eighth title of the year, easing past rising Japanese talent Tomoka Miyazaki 21-7, 21-17. The Korean star will next face Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong for a place in the final.

Christie Breaks Drought, Sets All-Indonesian Semifinal

In men’s singles, Jonatan Christie ended a lengthy semifinal drought with a confident straight-games victory over Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto. This marks the Indonesian’s first semifinal appearance since the Indonesia Masters in January.

Christie will now face teenage compatriot Alwi Farhan, who pulled off a stunning comeback win over China Masters champion Weng Hong Yang, recovering from a lopsided first game to triumph 4-21, 21-16, 21-17.

The top half of the draw features a clash between Danish star Anders Antonsen and seasoned Taiwanese campaigner Chou Tien Chen, both aiming to add another title to their decorated careers.