Kim Min-kyu wins Kolon Korea Open, earns spot in British Open with Younghan Song

Twenty-three-year-old Kim Min-kyu claimed his second Kolon Korea Open title in three years on Sunday at the Woo Jeong Hills Country Club, securing his second Asian Tour victory and a place alongside compatriot Younghan Song in this year’s British Open.

Kim won his first Asian Tour title at the Kolon Korea Open in 2022, but a car accident a few months later left him unable to play golf for several months, impacting his form over the past two years. The 23-year-old Korean prodigy made a triumphant return today, firing an eagle and five birdies against two bogeys for a final-round 66 (-5), finishing with a total score of 273 (70-66-71-66, -11) to win the Kolon Korea Open once more.

“I feel like I’m dreaming,” said Kim. “On the 13th hole, I tried to hit a little draw, but it went too low and into the water, then bounced back. I walked up and found the ball still there. After that escape, I felt like I was going to win, and I made a birdie on the next hole.”

Kim previously earned a spot in the 2022 British Open at St. Andrews through his Kolon Korea Open victory, although he missed the cut. With another chance to compete in the British Open, which will be held at Royal Troon from July 18-21, the Korean is hoping for a deeper run this time around.

“I visited Royal Troon to watch the British Open when I was in middle school, so I’ll have good memories going there,” added Kim.

Overnight leader Younghan Song settled for a one-over 71, finishing second with a total of 276 (-8). Despite not maintaining his lead, he secured his ticket to the British Open as well.

Korean players Jang Yubin and Kyungnam Kang carded 65 (-6) and 71 respectively to share third place on 277 (-7).

Hong Kong veteran Hugo Leon finished with a 73, ending up tied for 13th.

(Asian Tour AsianTour)