Despite a blow to the LPGA Tour’s Asian Swing with world no. 1 Nelly Korda’s withdrawal, the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea is buzzing with star power, headlined by none other than Lydia Ko. The Kiwi golf sensation, born in South Korea, returns as a favorite, looking to extend a blazing season that’s seen her net three victories, including back-to-back wins at the AIG Women’s Open and the Kroger Queen City Championship.
Ko’s journey with the South Korean event has always been personal. Winning her first title in South Korea in 2022, she described it as a dream come true. “Although I play under the New Zealand flag, I was born in Korea. I’m proud of my Korean heritage,” she shared, adding, “I always hoped to win in Korea at least once.” That emotional connection makes her a hometown favorite, even if she competes for New Zealand.
The 27-year-old’s roots run deep, particularly after her recent marriage to Chung Jun, son of Hyundai CEO Ted Chung. At the Paris Olympics, Ko’s father-in-law ensured she had a taste of home, coordinating with South Korean Olympic officials to provide daily Korean meals. This sense of home—on and off the course—could fuel another powerful run for Ko as she tees off against a star-studded field that includes Brooke Henderson, Hannah Green, and Minjee Lee.
After a challenging 2023 season, where she went winless, Ko has regained her momentum and is entering the BMW Ladies Championship with a renewed sense of purpose and pride. With her strong form and unwavering ties to her birthplace, Lydia Ko’s return to South Korea could be her most meaningful yet. Will her heart for Korea carry her to another victory on home soil?
