South Korea Hosts Inaugural International Hickory Golf Championship
The Korea Hickory Golfing Society welcomed players from across Asia and Scotland to Hillmaru Golf & Resort in Pocheon last month for a three-day historical golf event.
South Korea Hosts First International Hickory Event
The Korea Hickory Golfing Society (KHGS) staged its first international hickory championship at Hillmaru Golf & Resort in Pocheon, South Korea, from September 13 to 15. This inaugural Korea Hickory Open Championship brought together golfers and delegates from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Scotland, and Korea.
The event, held north of Seoul, marked a significant moment for traditional golf in the region, drawing participants keen to experience the game with century-old equipment. Many attendees were visiting Korea for the first time and had not previously met their fellow competitors, setting the stage for a unique gathering focused on golf's origins.
The three-day event showcased the enduring appeal of the sport's historical roots, attracting an international field to the Korean peninsula.
Canadian Four-Ball Crowns Inaugural Winners
The opening day's competition featured a Canadian Four-Ball format, where both team members tee off, then select one ball to play alternate shots from there. Despite many pairings being new, players quickly developed strong teamwork and offered encouragement throughout the round.
Rather than awkwardness, the atmosphere was marked by camaraderie and laughter, particularly when navigating challenging shots with historical clubs. This format also allowed participants to admire one another's vintage equipment and attire, adding to the day's enjoyment.
By the close of the first day, China's Mr. Jingsheng Tang and Ms. Chunghua Lin claimed the title of inaugural Canadian Four-Ball champions. Four other teams finished just one stroke behind, highlighting the competitive yet enjoyable spirit of the event.
A Celebration of Golfing Heritage and Culture
Beyond the competition, the championship celebrated golf's rich heritage and facilitated cultural exchange. Participants arrived in period-inspired hickory attire, with the Korean contingent incorporating traditional garments and the Chinese delegation presenting their own thoughtfully chosen historical outfits.
Mr. Gaoyang Zheng, a calligraphy artist from Tianmen, China, presented the KHGS with an original artwork commemorating the event, demonstrating how the sport connects diverse national traditions. The gathering also received congratulatory video messages from hickory societies in Australia, New Zealand, and Germany.
Mr. Tad Moore further supported the event by sponsoring a handmade hickory putter as the prize for the overall gross champion.
Diversifying Asia's Golf Travel Offerings
The successful staging of the Korea Hickory Open Championship shows South Korea's potential to attract a distinct segment of historical golf enthusiasts. Events like this can diversify the country's golf tourism beyond its modern course offerings, appealing to travellers seeking unique cultural and sporting experiences.
For golf operators and tourism boards across Asia, such initiatives illustrate how niche events can draw international visitors, providing a differentiated product in a competitive market.
The event sets a precedent for how other Asian destinations might develop their own heritage golf programmes, potentially opening new revenue streams and broadening the appeal of golf travel in the region.
Get The Sunday Round.
One course worth playing, one destination worth planning, and one story worth your coffee, every Sunday. Free.
