Tom Kim won gold at the Asian Games, which grants him an exemption from mandatory military service in South Korea. The 24-year-old golfer led the tournament going into the final round and finished with a six-under-par 64, totaling 18 under par and winning by three strokes. Despite a bogey on the 17th hole, Kim's performance included five birdies and an eagle, allowing him to secure the victory.
In South Korea, males are generally required to complete between 18 and 21 months of military service before turning 28. However, the government offers exemptions to Asian Games champions and Olympic medalists, allowing them to bypass most of the service requirements.
Previous athletes who have received this exemption include Son Heung-min, a former Tottenham footballer, who completed only three weeks of service in 2020 after winning the Asian Games in 2018.
Kim traveled from the Presidents Cup in the United States to compete at the Kasugai Country Club in Japan, managing only six hours of sleep and adjusting to a 14-hour time difference. His victory allows him to continue his professional career, which includes four PGA Tour titles and a win at the Scottish Open in July.
Kim had previously aimed for an exemption at the Paris Olympics in 2024 but finished eighth. His compatriot SH Kim, 28, missed out on a military exemption as South Korea secured only a silver medal in the team event, alongside Tom Kim and Mun Do-yeob, who has already completed his service.