Paik Seung-ho biography outlines the journey of a talented South Korean central midfielder who developed his elite skills at FC Barcelona's famed La Masia academy. Born on March 17, 1997, in Seoul, South Korea, Paik is renowned for his exceptional vision, passing accuracy, and long-range shooting ability. He possesses a calm demeanor on the ball that allows him to dictate the tempo of matches from the center of the pitch.

Currently showcasing his talents for Birmingham City in English football, Paik has firmly established himself as a key midfield orchestrator. Following an impressive start to his career in England, he signed a massive contract extension in late 2024, committing his prime years to the club until 2028. His flourishing performances in the midfield earned him a spot on the PFA League One Team of the Year for 2024-25, helping his side return to the EFL Championship.

Internationally, Paik has delivered memorable moments for the South Korea national team, most notably scoring a spectacular goal against Brazil in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. After winning a Gold Medal at the 2022 Asian Games as an overage captain, his leadership and technical prowess have secured his place in the South Korea squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

👤 Profile at a Glance

Full Name Paik Seung-ho
Date of Birth March 17, 1997
Age 29 years old
Birthplace Seoul, South Korea
Nationality South Korean
Profession Professional Soccer Player
Height 6 ft 0 in (1.82 m)
Education FC Barcelona La Masia Academy (2015)
Marital Status Single
Net Worth $3 Million (2026)

🎓 Education

FC Barcelona La Masia (2010-2015) - Relocated to Spain as a young teenager to train in one of the world's most prestigious football academies, developing world-class technical skills.

Maetan Middle School (2009-2010) - Played for the Suwon Samsung Bluewings youth team before being scouted and sent to Europe.

💼 Career

Paik Seung-ho began his professional career with Barcelona B, officially debuting in 2016. Seeking more consistent first-team minutes, he moved to Spanish side Peralada and later made a handful of appearances for Girona in La Liga. In 2019, he transferred to SV Darmstadt 98 in the German 2. Bundesliga, where he spent two seasons adjusting to the physical demands of central European football.

In 2021, Paik returned to South Korea, signing with K League 1 powerhouse Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. He made an immediate impact, helping the club secure the K League 1 title in his debut season and winning the Korean FA Cup the following year. His commanding domestic performances earned him spots on the K League All-Star team and rejuvenated his international career prospects.

In January 2024, Paik secured a dream move to English football, joining Birmingham City. He quickly adapted to the intense, physical nature of the English game, becoming a cornerstone of manager Chris Davies' midfield. His vital contributions helped Birmingham secure promotion back to the EFL Championship at the end of the 2024-25 season, earning him a spot on the PFA Team of the Year.

Throughout the 2025-2026 campaign in the Championship, Paik's influence continued to grow. He formed a dominant midfield partnership and consistently provided attacking thrust from deep positions. His excellent club form earned him a well-deserved contract extension through 2028.

Internationally, Paik debuted for South Korea in 2019. He was a pivotal figure in the 2022 World Cup and famously captained the under-24 squad to a Gold Medal at the delayed 2022 Asian Games. His consistent midfield excellence guaranteed his selection for the historic 2026 FIFA World Cup roster in North America.

🏠 Personal Life

Paik Seung-ho was born in Seoul, South Korea, where his extraordinary talent was recognized at a very young age. Leaving home as a young teenager to live in Spain required immense maturity and sacrifice, allowing him to become fluent in Spanish while adapting to the grueling expectations of La Masia. This unique upbringing forged his quiet, determined, and highly disciplined off-field personality.

Off the pitch, Paik enjoys a settled life in England and maintains close ties with his family back in South Korea. He is known to be very studious about the game, often analyzing European midfielders to continuously improve his tactical awareness. He enjoys the intense football culture in Birmingham and frequently praises the passionate local supporters.

As of 2026, Paik remains single and deeply focused on his athletic career. He embraces the pressure of representing South Korea on the global stage and hopes to use his European experience to guide the younger players in the national team squad during the 2026 World Cup.

🏆 Achievements & Awards

  • PFA League One Team of the Year (2024-25)
  • EFL League One Champion with Birmingham City (2024-25)
  • Asian Games Gold Medal (2022)
  • K League 1 Champion with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (2021)

💬 Notable Quotes

I am really happy to have signed my new contract with Birmingham. I feel like staying here is good for my career in football.

— Paik Seung-ho

I will do everything I can, even if it means crawling to the finish line.

— Paik Seung-ho

Playing in England was a dream move for me. The physical battles in the midfield make you a much stronger player overall.

— Paik Seung-ho

❓ People Also Ask

Paik Seung-ho is famous for being a South Korean midfielder who developed at Barcelona's La Masia and currently stars for Birmingham City.
Born on March 17, 1997, Paik Seung-ho is 29 years old as of 2026.
His estimated net worth is around $3 Million, earned through his professional contracts in Spain, Germany, South Korea, and England.
He was born in Seoul, South Korea, before moving to Spain as a youth player.
As of 2026, Paik Seung-ho is single and fully focused on his football career.
Yes, he famously scored a spectacular long-range goal against Brazil in the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.