South Korean golfers have made a significant impact on the PGA Tour in recent years, showcasing their skills and winning major tournaments. Let’s take a look at 10 of the top South Korean golfers who are making waves on the PGA Tour in 2024.
1. Sungjae Im
Sungjae Im is one of the most consistent and talented South Korean golfers on the PGA Tour. Born in 1998, Im turned professional in 2015 and quickly made a name for himself. He has two PGA Tour victories under his belt and is known for his precise iron play and calm demeanor on the course. Im’s journey to success began when he won the Web.com Tour Player of the Year award in 2018. The following year, he was named PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, becoming one of the few players to win both awards in consecutive seasons. His first PGA Tour victory came in 2020 at the Honda Classic, and he followed it up with another win at the Shriners Children’s Open in 2021. Known for his incredible work ethic, Im often plays more tournaments than any other player on tour. His consistency and ability to perform well under pressure make him a constant threat in any tournament he enters.
2. Si Woo Kim
Si Woo Kim is another standout South Korean golfer who has made his mark on the PGA Tour. Born in 1995, Kim became the youngest player to earn a PGA Tour card through qualifying school at just 17 years old. Kim’s breakthrough moment came in 2016 when he won the Wyndham Championship, his first PGA Tour victory. However, his most impressive achievement to date is winning The Players Championship in 2017 at the age of 21, making him the youngest winner in the tournament’s history. Known for his precision and accuracy, Kim’s calm demeanor under pressure has helped him succeed in high-stakes situations. His consistent putting and strategic play make him a formidable opponent on any course.
3. Tom Kim
Tom Kim, also known as Kim Joo-hyung, is one of the youngest and most exciting South Korean golfers on the PGA Tour. Born in 2002, Kim has already made a significant impact despite his young age. Kim’s rise to fame has been meteoric. He secured his PGA Tour card in 2022 and quickly notched his first victory at the Wyndham Championship that same year. He followed this up with another win at the Shriners Children’s Open, becoming the first player since Tiger Woods to win twice on the PGA Tour before turning 21. Known for his powerful drives and excellent iron play, Kim’s enthusiasm and positive attitude on the course have made him a fan favorite. His ability to perform well in big moments suggests a bright future ahead.
4. K.H. Lee
K.H. Lee has established himself as a consistent performer on the PGA Tour. Born in 1991, Lee turned professional in 2010 and worked his way up through various tours before joining the PGA Tour in 2019. Lee’s breakthrough came in 2021 when he won the AT&T Byron Nelson tournament. He successfully defended his title the following year, showcasing his ability to perform well on familiar courses. Known for his accurate driving and solid all-around game, Lee’s steady improvement year after year has made him a respected competitor on tour.
5. Byeong Hun An
Byeong Hun An, often referred to as “Ben An,” has been a regular presence on the PGA Tour since 2016. Born in 1991, An first gained international attention when he became the youngest winner of the U.S. Amateur Championship in 2009 at the age of 17. While An is still seeking his first PGA Tour victory, he has come close several times with multiple top-10 finishes. His consistent performances have kept him in the top 100 of the world golf rankings for several years. An’s strength lies in his powerful driving and solid iron play. His ability to compete at the highest level week after week makes him a player to watch in any tournament.
6. Sung Kang
Sung Kang has been a steady presence on the PGA Tour since earning his card in 2011. Born in 1987, Kang’s journey to the PGA Tour included success on the Korean Tour and the Web.com Tour. Kang’s career highlight came in 2019 when he won the AT&T Byron Nelson tournament, his first and so far only PGA Tour victory. This win was particularly special as it came in front of a supportive crowd in Dallas, where Kang resides. Known for his accurate iron play and ability to go low when his putter is hot, Kang has shown he can compete with the best when he’s on his game.
7. Sunghoon Kang
Sunghoon Kang, not to be confused with Sung Kang, has been competing on the PGA Tour since 2011. Born in 1987, Kang turned professional in 2007 and worked his way up through various tours. While Kang is still searching for his first PGA Tour victory, he has had several close calls and numerous top-10 finishes throughout his career. His consistency has allowed him to maintain his tour card for over a decade. Kang’s game is characterized by solid all-around play. His ability to grind out good scores even when not at his best has been key to his longevity on tour.
8. Seong-Hyeon Kim
Seong-Hyeon Kim, also known as “Andrew Kim,” is a rising star in South Korean golf. Born in 1998, Kim has been making waves on the Asian Tour and is now looking to make his mark on the PGA Tour. While Kim is still establishing himself on the PGA Tour, his performances in Asia and in major championships have shown his potential. He finished tied for 13th at the 2017 U.S. Open as an amateur, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level. Kim’s game is characterized by long, accurate driving and solid iron play. As he gains more experience on the PGA Tour, many expect him to become a regular contender.
9. Siwoo Kim
Not to be confused with Si Woo Kim, Siwoo Kim is another talented South Korean golfer making his way on the PGA Tour. Born in 1995, Kim has been steadily improving his game and climbing the world rankings. While Kim is still seeking his first PGA Tour victory, he has had success on other tours, including wins on the Korean Tour. His consistent performances have earned him starts in major championships and World Golf Championships events. Kim’s strength lies in his accurate iron play and solid short game. As he gains more experience on the PGA Tour, many believe it’s only a matter of time before he breaks through for his first win.
10. Jaekyeong Lee
Rounding out our list is Jaekyeong Lee, a young talent who is just beginning to make his mark on the PGA Tour. Born in 1998, Lee has shown promise in his early professional career. While Lee is still establishing himself on the PGA Tour, his performances on the Korn Ferry Tour and in PGA Tour events have shown his potential. He secured his PGA Tour card through strong play on the Korn Ferry Tour, golf’s developmental tour. Lee’s game is characterized by long driving and a solid all-around skill set. As he gains more experience at the highest level, many expect him to become a regular contender on the PGA Tour.
Conclusion
These 10 South Korean golfers represent the strength and depth of talent coming from their country. South Korean golfers continue to make their mark on the PGA Tour, from established stars like Sungjae Im and Si Woo Kim to rising talents like Tom Kim and Jaekyeong Lee. Their success has inspired a new generation of golfers in South Korea and helped elevate the country’s status in the golfing world. As we move through 2024 and beyond, it will be exciting to watch these players compete and see who will emerge as the next South Korean golf superstar.