‘Hyundae Family’ Future Daughter-in-law Lydia Ko: "I Am Proud of My Korean Roots"

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] Lydia Ko (New Zealand), the prospective daughter-in-law of the ‘Hyundai family,’ emphasized her connection to Korea.

On the 23rd, Lydia Ko achieved a 4-stroke victory at the BMW Ladies Championship, the only LPGA Tour event held in Korea, which concluded at Oak Valley Golf Club in Wonju, Gangwon Province. This was her second win of the season and the 18th of her career. Lydia Ko smiled brightly, saying, "Although my nationality is New Zealand, I take pride in being born in Korea," and added, "I had a strong desire to win in Korea."

In particular, Lydia Ko’s recent victory has attracted more attention as it comes ahead of her upcoming marriage to Jung Joon, the only son of Jung Tae-young, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Card, scheduled for December 30.

Lydia Ko is taking a selfie holding the trophy right after winning the BMW Ladies Championship. Photo by BMW Korea

- You achieved your first win in Korea. How do you feel?

▲ I was born in Korea and take pride in my Korean roots. My family is in Korea, I enjoy delicious Korean food, and I continuously experience Korean culture. I always wanted to win in Korea, whether it be an LPGA Tour event or a KLPGA Tour event, even if just once.

- You shed tears during the victory interview.

▲ My father watched my game in person for the first time since 2019 due to COVID-19. Thanks to the support of many family members, I was able to gain strength and win. I think I got emotional and tears came out. Many people encourage me when I play in Korea. I could feel the energy wishing for my victory.

- Who came to the tournament venue?

▲ My parents, older sister, brother-in-law, uncle, aunt, maternal aunt, and cousins?all my family came. Fans also gave me many words of encouragement like ‘Fighting, stay strong,’ which was a great support.

- You are getting married in December. Did your fianc? come to support you?

▲ (Smiling) Wherever he is, he is always in my heart. I am grateful that many people congratulate and show interest in my marriage, but right now, I want to talk only about this tournament.

- Your score was good in the back nine today as well.

▲ My shot feeling was good, so I played confidently and boldly. The birdie on the 10th hole was a turning point. After that, I rode a good momentum. Overall, I played a solid game, created and seized opportunities well, and luck also played a part.

- The competition on the LPGA Tour is fierce.

▲ There are many strong players like Minjee Lee (Australia), Atthaya Thitikul (Thailand), Ko Jin-young (27), and Nelly Korda (USA). LPGA players are showing incredible skills. These days, even one bad round can have a big impact. The level of LPGA and women’s golf has risen significantly.

- You are currently first in Player of the Year, scoring average, and CME Globe Race.

▲ I experienced a slump in my shots over the past few years, but I have thought a lot and practiced to achieve stable play, and those efforts are showing results, allowing me to play more confidently and comfortably. Although I have had seasons with more wins, this year feels like my most consistent season.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.