Sung Jung-woo, a student from Sejong University, has been named in Forbes Korea's prestigious '30 Under 30' list for 2026, which highlights youth leaders under 30 who demonstrate significant achievements and potential in various industries. Jung-woo, who leads the eco-friendly startup Plantner, is noted for leveraging alginate-based technologies from seaweed to tackle agricultural and environmental challenges simultaneously. His venture seeks to improve productivity while addressing pressing ecological issues, representing a forward-thinking approach to the sustainability of agriculture.

The establishment of Plantner originated from Jung-woo's volunteer experience in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam in 2019, where he witnessed the detrimental effects of excessive chemical fertilizer use leading to soil degradation and rising costs. This prompted him to explore the creation of fertilizers that enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. His academic background in English Language and Literature has played a crucial role in developing global partnerships and entering international markets, while his minor in Data Science has been instrumental in data analysis and enhancing agricultural technologies, showcasing an effective interdisciplinary synergy.

Jung-woo's innovative solutions and commitment to sustainability have gained international recognition, as evidenced by Plantner's selection as a finalist for the Edison Awards, often referred to as the ‘Oscars of Innovation.’ In his response to this recognition, Jung-woo expressed that this honor reflects the joint efforts of his team and partners rather than solely his individual achievements, highlighting his ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and the bio-material industry through technological and business development.