Kim wins Asian Games gold to secure military exemption

Tom Kim secured an Asian Games gold medal at the final round of the Scottish Open, allowing him to avoid mandatory military service in South Korea. The 24-year-old led into the final round and posted a remarkable six-under-par 64, finishing 18 under and winning by three strokes. Despite a bogey on the 17th, Kim rebounded with five birdies and an eagle before the final hole, tapping in for par with evident relief.

Under South Korean law, able-bodied males must serve between 18 and 21 months in the military before the age of 28. However, Asian Games champions and Olympic medalists are exempt from service, aside from basic training that lasts less than a month. Other recipients include former Tottenham footballer Son Heung-min, who served just three weeks in 2020 after winning the Asian Games with South Korea two years prior.

Kim flew from the Presidents Cup in the United States to play at the Kasugai Country Club in Japan, managing just six hours of sleep and a 14-hour time difference. His efforts paid off, as the world number 32 can now continue his career without disruption. He has already won four PGA Tour titles and the Scottish Open in July. Kim had previously been close to securing an exemption at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing day one tied for third before ending up eighth.

However, South Korea could only claim silver in the team event alongside Kim and Mun Do-yeob, who had already completed his service.