[Kim Ha-neul's FunFun Golf]⑩ 'Prepare Ball Marks at Golf Courses'

Principle of One-Bounce Hit, Mark Immediately Upon Reaching Green
Repair Damaged Areas, Avoid Stepping on Opponent's Line

This time, it's about green etiquette. First, the principle of ‘Wonguseonta (遠球先打)’ applies. The golfer whose ball is farthest from the hole plays first. This rule applies even if the green is missed. If the ball lies in the rough near the green but is closer than a ball that is on the green, the player can play later. Of course, for faster play, golfers sometimes play regardless of distance.

Be careful not to step on your companion’s line. Spike marks or flattened grass can affect the rolling ball. Actions such as dragging golf shoes while walking on the green or damaging the green with the putter are strictly prohibited. Also, be cautious not to cross in front of a player preparing to putt. It is polite to walk behind your companion.

When your opponent is putting, you must remain quiet. Noise can negatively affect their play. When a fellow player reads the putting line, they also need to check their own line to save time. Even then, you should be mindful not to disturb your companion. Pause briefly and move out of their line of sight. The same applies to standing on the opposite side during putting. Also, be careful not to cast shadows.

After an approach shot near the green, mark your ball immediately so as not to disturb your companions. Amateur golfers in Korea tend to use large ball markers, but you should prepare a small marker engraved with the golf course logo. This marker does not obstruct putting and saves time since you don’t need to move the ball.

Iron shots leave pitch marks on the green. It is etiquette to repair them for the next play. However, you must know the correct way to repair pitch marks. Improper handling can damage the green even more.

Sportainer and former 14-time winner on the Korea-Japan Tour

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