How Foreign Golfers Experience Korean Golf Culture (외국인 골퍼가 느끼는 한국 골프 문화 차이)

 

How Foreign Golfers Experience Korean Golf Culture (외국인 골퍼가 느끼는 한국 골프 문화 차이)

Playing golf in Korea feels very different compared to other countries.

Based on real experience caddying for many foreign players, here’s how visitors truly feel about Korean golf culture.

1. Silence is Sacred

In many countries, casual chatting and jokes during the round are common.
But in Korea, silence is serious.
When someone is teeing off or putting:

• No talking
• No movement
• Eyes focused

First-time visitors often feel the course is "too quiet" and slightly awkward—but that’s the standard here.

2. Dress Code Is Strict

In Korea, the dress code isn’t just a suggestion — it’s a rule.
Collarless shirts, jeans, short shorts, and slippers are not allowed.
Entry can be denied for improper attire.

In contrast, many golf courses overseas (especially in Southeast Asia or parts of Europe) are more relaxed about clothing.

In Korea, dressing properly is part of respecting the game.

3. Caddies Are Essential

Unlike in some countries where self-play is common,
most Korean courses require a caddie to accompany every group.

Caddies manage:

• Distance readings
• Club recommendations
• Flag handling
• Course explanations
• Cleaning clubs

Foreign golfers often admire the level of service,
but some are surprised at how "professional and structured" the support feels.

4. Teamwork Over Solo Play

Koreans treat golf not as a solo competition, but as a team flow experience.

• Matching pace with partners
• Yielding courteously at the tee box
• Naturally exchanging "Good shot!" and "Thank you" during play

Foreign golfers quickly notice that in Korea, the group's harmony matters more than individual focus.

5. Speed Management Is Very Strict

Courses manage pace very tightly:

• 9 holes: around 2 hours
• Full 18 holes: 4 hours 10–20 minutes maximum

If a group falls behind, staff may approach politely to remind players to speed up.

In many countries, slow and relaxed play is accepted.
But in Korea, "time is also etiquette."

6. After-Round Flow

After golf:

• Quick shower in the locker room
• A small meal or a beer with the group
• Group photo
• Swift departure

Korean golfers value finishing the day cleanly and efficiently.
Foreigners often praise this style as "simple and refreshing."

7. Very Little Alcohol During Play

Unlike some American or Southeast Asian courses where players bring beers onto the cart,
Korean golfers rarely drink alcohol during the round.

They stay serious, focused, and respectful until after the game ends.

Many visitors are surprised and impressed by how professional the atmosphere feels.

To foreign golfers, Korean golf culture feels:

• Disciplined
• Fast-paced
• Fashionable
• Team-oriented
• Highly respectful

It might feel strict at first, but once they adapt,
most agree that Korea offers one of the most organized, clean, and enjoyable golfing experiences in the world.