[Golf Topic] Korea Open "Canceled for the First Time Ever Due to COVID-19 Impact"

It shows last year's Korean Open champion Jazz Watananand holding the trophy. Photo by KPGA

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ○…The 63rd Korea Open has been canceled due to the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The Korea Golf Association and co-host Kolon announced on the 15th, "We will not be able to hold this year's Korea Open (total prize money of 1.2 billion KRW)," adding, "Due to the pandemic situation of COVID-19, we have no choice but to cancel the event to prevent infection and stop its spread." They further explained, "Due to concerns about the resurgence of COVID-19 and additional transmission in local communities, it is difficult to proceed with the tournament," and "Above all, we made this decision prioritizing the safety of players and the public."

The Korea Open, which started in 1958, had never been canceled before. It was scheduled to take place over four days from June 25 at Woojeong Hills Golf Club in Cheonan, Chungnam. Domestic men's professional golf tournaments in the 2020 season, including the KPGA Korean Tour opening event DB Insurance Promy Open, Maekyung Open, SK Telecom Open, and KB Financial Live Championship, have all been postponed or canceled. The next tournament is the major 63rd KPGA Championship, starting on June 11.

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