Tee off in a land where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge courses! Korea’s golf scene blends world-class design with breathtaking landscapes—from coastal cliffs to volcanic peaks. For foreigners, it’s an undiscovered paradise. Here’s your insider’s playbook:
⛳ Why Korea? Beyond K-Pop and Kimchi
- Year-Round Play: Seasons paint courses in cherry blossoms (spring), emerald summers, fiery autumn foliage, and crisp winters (heated carts included!).
- Accessibility: 500+ courses nationwide, many <1 hour from Seoul/Incheon. English signage and staff are common at top clubs.
- K-Culture Infusion: Post-game, unwind in jjimjilbangs (spas) or feast on galbi (BBQ)—golf is a lifestyle here!
🏆 Must-Play Courses for Foreign Travelers
- Nine Bridges (Jeju Island)
- Designer: Ronald Fream & David Dale
- Highlights: Volcanic backdrops, stone-walled fairways, and the iconic “floating” 7th green. Travel Tip: Pair with Jeju’s waterfalls and black pork BBQ.
- Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea (Incheon)
- Signature: Hosted the 2015 Presidents Cup. Expect undulating greens and strategic bunkers.
- Perk: Easy airport access—perfect for layover golf!
- Whistling Rock (Gangwon-do)
- Drama: Mountainous terrain with elevation drops up to 100m. The 15th hole teeters above a cliff—Instagram gold!
- Sky 72 (Incheon)
- Uniqueness: Four courses (Ocean, Lake, Golden, Sky) + simulators. Ideal for groups with mixed skill levels.
📅 Booking Smart: Foreigner-Friendly Tips
- Membership? Not Required! Most courses welcome non-members via:
- Apps: Golfzon or Caddie (English options available).
- Hotels/Concierges: Leverage luxury stays for tee-time assistance.
- Peak vs. Value:
- Prime Time (Weekends): ₩150,000–₩400,000 (≈$110–$300). Book 2+ weeks ahead!
- Twilight Deals: 30–50% discounts after 2 PM.
- Caddie Culture: Mandatory (₩50,000–₩80,000 tip included). They’ll read greens, clean clubs, and even snap photos!
🙏 Etiquette: Play Like a Local
- Dress Code: Collared shirts + tailored pants/skirts. NO denim or joggers!
- Silence = Golden: Stand still during swings and mute phones.
- Pace Matters: Keep under 4.5 hours. Let faster groups play through.
- Post-Game Ritual: Shower at the clubhouse (onsens often included!) before dining.
🍜 Off-Course Adventures
- Seoul Side Quest: After Sky 72, explore Songdo Central Park or feast in Gwangjang Market.
- Jeju Fusion: Post-Nine Bridges, hike Hallasan volcano or sip local omija tea.
- Gangwon-do Thrills: Near Whistling Rock, ski at Yongpyong (winter) or raft the Dong River (summer).
Final Putt
Korea isn’t just a golf destination—it’s a symphony of culture, cuisine, and challenging fairways. Pack your clubs, embrace jeong (Korean warmth), and discover why this peninsula is Asia’s best-kept golf secret. Fore! 🌏⛳