The Hyo Joo Kim fanbase will be out in full force this week as their Major winning star returns to Seoul to defend her Aramco Korea Championship crown.
It was a memorable homecoming for Kim last time out as she outshone Charley Hull to win the previously named Aramco Team Series – Korea title by three shots.
Back in Seoul after an excellent start to the 2025 season on the LPGA Tour – Kim has one victory and three more top-10s – the World No 8 is excited to get going and put on a show for her fans, the shooting stars, once again.
“It’s been a while since I last played in Korea,” Kim said. “I had a great tournament here last year, so I’m happy to be back as the defending champion. I hope to finish the week with a good performance and great result for the fans.
“I arrived on Tuesday. Instead of heading straight to the course, I spent some time with my family and niece. I’ve adjusted well to the time difference and feel good.”
Kim headlines the field alongside fellow Major winning Korean Sung Hyun Park and Solheim Cup star Danielle Kang. The three players attended a press conference together on Thursday and are expecting great crowds at New Korea Country Club.
“Sung Hyun and I are both known for having a strong fan base in Korea,” Kim explained. “Playing here makes golf more fun than in the U.S. When you make a birdie and the crowd goes wild, there’s nothing better. That’s why I keep coming back for Korean tournaments, it’s all because of the fans.”
Just two weeks ago, Kim came mightily close to Major number two when she lost to Japan’s Mao Saigo in a five-way playoff at The Chevon Championship.
On her recent form, the home favourite said: “I practiced a lot over the winter, probably the most since elementary school. I think that’s why my results have been good this year. I hope to keep it up through the end of the season.”
The Aramco Korea Championship boasts two competitions this week, the 54-hole Individual and 36-hole Team events. Kim will captain a side of Ladies European Tour (LET) players Ginnie Ding, Daniela Darquea and Ariane Klotz when play gets underway on Friday morning. Home advantage could be key for the Wonju-si native at New Korea Country Club.
Kim said: “I haven’t played a full practice round yet this year, I’ll do that today. But I did play here last year and occasionally before. The slopes on the greens are steep, so I think it’s important to position your ball where you can putt comfortably. Knowing the course will be an advantage.”
