This study employs balanced panel data from four Southeast Asian countries (Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Myanmar) during 2002–2022 to examine the impact of human development on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The findings reveal that health (life expectancy) and income (GNI per capita) positively influence FDI, whereas education and the Human Development Index (HDI) generally show limited impact. Moreover, market size, trade openness, and infrastructure contribute to promoting FDI attraction, while exchange rates, interest rates, and political risk serve as deterrents.