Sooyoung joins marathon with her father at charity event for the visually impaired

Girls' Generation member and actress Sooyoung took part in a meaningful charity marathon alongside her father on June 13 at the '12th Harmony Marathon' with the Visually Impaired, held at Pyeonghwa Square in World Cup Park, Mapo-gu, Seoul.

Arriving at the event, Sooyoung appeared ready for the race with her hair neatly tied in a ponytail. She drew attention by standing proudly next to her father, who currently serves as the chairman of the Korea Foundation for the Prevention of Blindness. The singer-actress was also seen waiting for the marathon alongside fellow participant and philanthropist Sean, one of the event’s co-hosts. Greeting attendees with a bright smile and friendly waves, Sooyoung showcased her positive energy throughout the event.

Previously, Sooyoung revealed that her father has been battling retinitis pigmentosa, a rare inherited eye disease, for more than 15 years and has experienced significant vision problems. She has also spoken about his role as chairman of the organization, which supports research initiatives and hosts various events aimed at improving the lives of people with visual impairments.

For many years, Sooyoung has actively supported her father’s mission as an ambassador for the organization. In 2023, she donated 300 million KRW (approximately 220,000 USD) to fund research for treatments targeting blinding eye diseases, continuing her efforts to support visually impaired individuals and patients suffering from inherited retinal disorders.

At the event, Sooyoung was scheduled to run the marathon course alongside participants, while all proceeds from the race will be used to support welfare programs for people with visual impairments.

Meanwhile, news of Sooyoung’s breakup with actor Jung Kyung Ho surfaced on June 9. Her agency confirmed the reports, stating, “It is true that Sooyoung and Jung Kyung Ho recently ended their relationship.”

The two stars began dating in 2012 and publicly acknowledged their relationship in 2014. As one of the Korean entertainment industry’s longest-running celebrity couples, they received widespread support throughout their 14-year relationship. Their recent separation has attracted significant public attention.