South Korean golfer Tom Kim receives a military exemption with a gold medal at the Asian Games
Golfer Tom Kim won a gold medal at the Asian Games, securing an exemption from South Korea's mandatory military service. While Kim succeeded, his teammates failed to win the team event, meaning they did not qualify for the same exemption.
Why it matters
This highlights the unique intersection of professional sports and national service requirements in South Korea, where athletic success can impact career longevity.
NAGOYA, Japan (AP) — South Korean golfer Tom Kim got what he came for by winning the men's singles on Saturday at the Asian Games : a gold medal and an exemption from military service back home.
He shot a 6-under 64 in Saturday's final round for a four-day total of 18-under 262. Three golfers were three back and faced a playoff with Kazuki Higa of Japan taking silver and Thailand's Sadom Kaewkanjana earning bronze.
Tom Kim made a special effort to win in Japan, flying across the Pacific when the Presidents Cup competition ended last weekend.
Asked about the exemption, he took the gold-medal approach.
"Despite that, I'm more proud that I'm able to bring a medal for my country," he said.
He did acknowledge pressure — the flight, the expectations, the gold medal and more.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in