Golf

  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. Cad...

  Korean Golfers’ Playing Style – Real Insights from 10 Years of Experience (한국 골퍼들의 플레이 스타일) Korean golfers have a unique playing style that’s very different from other countries. It’s not just about hitting the ball — it’s about rhythm, respect, team flow, and a little bit of fashion too. Based on 10 years of real caddie experience, here’s how Korean golfers really play. 1. Fast but Smooth Play Speed matters on Korean golf courses. Most courses encourage players to finish 18 holes within 4 hours and 10 minutes. Golfers are always aware of time, moving quickly but not rushing. They prepare swings efficiently, read putting lines without long delays, and move from shot to shot smoothly. It’s not about running — it’s about keeping a steady, professional rhythm. 2. "Good Shot!" Culture – Light Applause After Tee Shots In Korea, when someone hits a good tee shot, it’s common for playing partners to clap lightly and say "Good shot!" Especially on the first ...

  Caddie Culture and Roles in Korean Golf (한국 골프장의 캐디 문화와 역할) In Korea, caddies aren’t just assistants — they’re the heart of the game flow. Having worked as a caddie for over 10 years, I can tell you: a good caddie can make your round smoother, faster, and way more enjoyable. Foreign golfers are often surprised by just how involved Korean caddies are. Here’s what you need to know. --- 1. One caddie per team In most Korean golf courses, there’s one caddie assigned to each team of four players. Unlike other countries where players carry their own bags or use carts alone, Korean caddies manage: All four bags Driving the cart Setting up tee shots Measuring distances Reading putting lines Cleaning and organizing clubs They’re not just carrying equipment — they’re orchestrating the entire round. --- 2. Caddies guide, advise, and support Caddies in Korea do much more than just drive the cart. They help with: Yardage & wind direction Strategy suggestions for safer plays Pace control a...

  Korean Golf Course Dining Culture (한국 골프장의 식사 문화와 클럽하우스 음식) You might think golf is all about swings and scores, but in Korea, there’s one thing golfers secretly love just as much: the food. After working as a caddie for over 10 years, I can confidently say— many golfers come for the game but stay for the meal. Let me walk you through the unique and delicious dining culture inside Korean golf courses. --- 1. Breakfast is part of the ritual Most golf rounds in Korea start early—often between 6 and 8 AM. That’s why breakfast at the clubhouse isn’t optional, it’s tradition. Dishes like beef soup (yukgaejang), dried pollack soup (bugeotguk), or soft tofu stew are common. Warm, comforting, and perfect to get your body ready for the game. --- 2. Post-round lunch is like a feast After 18 holes, golfers head straight to the clubhouse restaurant. And trust me—it’s not your average cafeteria. Menus often include: Hanwoo beef soup Bossam (boiled pork with kimchi) Grilled eel Cold noodles (n...

  What It’s Like to Have a Caddie in Korea한국 골프장 캐디 문화는 어떤 느낌일까? --- In Korea, the presence of a caddie is not an option — it's a requirement. If you’re used to self-carrying your clubs or renting a trolley, the Korean system might feel overwhelming at first. But once you experience it, you’ll realize: a caddie in Korea is not just a helper, but a guide, a strategist, and a team leader. Here’s what you can expect. --- 1. You Can’t Play Without a Caddie In most Korean golf courses, each group (usually 4 players) is assigned one caddie by default. Self-play is rarely allowed. The fee is ₩150,000 per group, not including an optional tip. This is paid directly to the club and is mandatory. In Western countries, caddies are rare and optional. In Korea, they’re an integral part of the golf experience. --- 2. Caddies Are Not Club Employees One misconception is that caddies are employed by the golf course. In reality, many work through third-party service companies, and are assigned per te...

  Why Are Korean Golf Courses So Expensive? 한국 골프장은 왜 그렇게 비쌀까? -- A question many foreign golfers ask the moment they check tee times in Korea. Compared to other countries, green fees in Korea are shockingly high. In Southeast Asia, you can play a full 18-hole round for $30. In the U.S., $60–90 is average. But in Korea? It’s not uncommon to pay $150–300 or more, especially on weekends. So why is golf so expensive in Korea? It’s not just the course itself. Korean golf is a premium service experience — and the price reflects that. --- 1. Mandatory Caddie System (₩150,000 per team) Unlike in the West, you can't play golf in Korea without a caddie. One caddie manages a group of four, helping with club selection, distances, ball spotting, and even reading greens. The fee? ₩150,000 (around $110) per team. This is separate from the green fee, and it’s not optional. In most other countries, caddies are rare and optional. In Korea, it’s part of the cultural package. --- 2. Cart Fee (₩80,000...