South Korea’s New Wave: The Rise of Korean Fighters in the UFC

In recent years, the UFC has made a clear effort to expand its global reach, targeting markets with strong MMA backgrounds. One of those markets is East Asia, where the promotion has signed a growing number of fighters from the region and hosted several international events, including UFC Macau last year and the upcoming UFC Shanghai. While Chinese fighters have traditionally led the way in the region, a new wave is starting to gain momentum — this time from South Korea. In this article, we’ll spotlight some of these rising Korean fighters and explore their potential futures in the UFC.

Seokhyeon Ko

Seokhyeon Ko made his UFC debut at UFC Baku, impressing fans and analysts alike by defeating rising prospect Oban Elliott via unanimous decision. The Welterweight prospect showcased a well-rounded MMA game, displaying sharp striking and solid grappling. Beating a respected prospect like Elliott is a major statement for Ko, who now finds himself just a couple of wins away from breaking into the rankings. If he can pick up a few victories against more experienced UFC veterans, a top-15 spot could be within reach.

Park Hyun-sung

The Flyweight Division has been surging in excitement recently, and South Korean fighters are joining in. Park Hyun-sung is one of the country’s top prospects, remaining undefeated in his MMA career and sporting a perfect three-win record in the UFC. Impressively, he’s earned finishes in nine of his ten professional bouts, including all three of his UFC wins. Park’s ground game is particularly dangerous, with an ability to secure rear-naked chokes and control opponents on the mat. Paired with his tall frame and fast, fluid striking, Park is a fighter with serious potential — but tougher competition awaits if he wants to crack the rankings.

Joo Sang Yoo

Following in the footsteps of his mentor, “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung, Joo Sang Yoo made his UFC debut in June 2025 with a memorable first-round knockout, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. Nicknamed “Zombie Jr.,” Yoo possesses crisp kickboxing and the ability to mix quick combinations with legitimate knockout power. While he has some grappling ability, his striking remains his primary weapon. He should be looking to fight more experienced opponents in his next bout in the Featherweight Division. Still early in his UFC career, Yoo has plenty of room to grow, but with the Korean Zombie in his corner and growing fan support, he’s a prospect worth keeping an eye on.

Choi Doo-ho

A familiar name to longtime UFC fans, Choi Doo-ho recently returned to the promotion after going 3-3 in his first stint. Now riding a two-fight win streak, Choi has rekindled excitement among fans as he looks to break into the Featherweight rankings. Known for his sharp boxing and aggressive style, Choi often hunts for finishes inside the Octagon. With improved ground-and-pound and more experience under his belt, he could pose problems for future opponents as he continues his comeback run.

Park Jun-yong

The most experienced fighter on this list, Park Jun-yong — also known as "The Iron Turtle" — is currently riding a two-fight win streak in the UFC, boasting a nine-win and three-loss record inside the promotion. Park is best known for his grinding grappling style, using relentless pressure and top control to wear down his opponents. While his striking is serviceable, he excels in controlling the pace of a fight and neutralizing his opponents’ strengths. Rumors have circulated that Park could be a potential next opponent for Bo Nickal, following Nickal’s recent loss to Reinier de Ridder. Park seems destined to serve as a tough gatekeeper in the Middleweight Division, with the chance to earn a title shot if he can string together a few more wins.

South Korea’s MMA scene is clearly on the rise, with a new generation of fighters making waves in the UFC. From Park Hyun-sung’s submission skills to Joo Sang Yoo’s striking prowess, this fresh crop of talent has the tools to compete on the sport’s biggest stage. As the UFC continues its international expansion, don’t be surprised if one of these fighters soon finds themselves in a top contender spot — or even challenging for a championship. With the right matchups and continued momentum, South Korea could soon produce its next global MMA superstar.