One Court, Two Countries: Phnom Penh Gears Up for First Major Cambodia–Korea Badminton Tournament

Cambodian and Korean players will take to the court as partners when the inaugural Daikou Badminton Tournament opens in Phnom Penh on Saturday, November 28. The first major badminton exchange tournament between the two communities is expected to bring together 146 players across six divisions at ACE Badminton Club in Sen Sok and Strike21 Badminton Club.

Badminton is a popular recreational sport in both Cambodia and Korea, and the tournament gives players and fans a chance to meet through a game they already love. “Daikou” means “partner” in Khmer, and the opening exhibition match will put that idea into play at 9:30 a.m., with Cambodian and Korean players teaming up on the same side of the net. The event begins at 9 a.m., with divisional matches starting at 10 a.m.

Cambodian and Korean players can enter four divisions. ACE Badminton Club will host Mixed Doubles D and Singles C, while Strike21 will host Men’s Doubles C and D. Club membership is not required. Players entering their first tournament can ask the organizers whether a D division suits their level. Players of other nationalities should confirm their eligibility with the organizers before registering.

Registration closes on Thursday, November 26. To enter, send your preferred division, full name and a photo of yourself to Taehwan Kim on Telegram at @TAEHWAN_KIM or call 070 811 563 for details. The entry fee is US$10 per player and includes a tournament shirt. Spectators of all nationalities are welcome to cheer from the sidelines and join the prize draw after the matches.