The growth of golf in South Korea has been nothing short of remarkable. A recent report from the R&A in September 2024 mentioned that the number of registered Korean golfers in 2023 was about 214,000. Besides, based on statistics from ParGolf, the total number of Korean golfers increased impressively from from 2.75 million in 2007 to over 8.7 million in early 2024.
With a strong golfing culture and a booming golf industry in the country, many South Korean golf enthusiasts are seeking new challenges, picturesque courses, and high-quality resorts when they travel. This is not just about playing a round of golf in another country; it’s also a journey to experience unique destinations and cultural identities, all while enjoying world-class golf and an ideal vacation.
In this article, based on trusted analyses and reliable information resources, AGJ Golf Marketing has gathered unique insights into what drives South Korean golfers' decisions and preferences when selecting a course for their golf trip.
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1. Korean Golfer’s Insight - Top 05 Reasons why Korean Golfer travel abroad for golf
For many Korean golfers, the thrill of hitting the links extends far beyond domestic courses, especially when the opportunity to travel abroad arises. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, more players are seeking international experiences that offer not just new challenges but also favorable conditions. Below are the top five reasons why Korean golfers are choosing to travel abroad for their golfing adventures.
1️⃣ To play in winter (23.3%)
2️⃣ Lower costs (18.9%)
3️⃣ Going with friends or groups (16.8%)
4️⃣ To play comfortably (11.7%)
5️⃣ Climate and cost issues in current Korea course
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2. Prioritize when Korean traveling for golf
Short-stay golfers Korean golfers often choose golf courses in Southeast Asia due to their proximity and the time efficiency of travel. Their vacations typically last 2-4 days. Additionally, Southeast Asian countries offer reasonable pricing and attractive deals, such as unlimited round packages and Play & Stay programs. Moreover, the quality of caddy services is generally praised for being attentive and professional.
Efficient course management, particularly in regulating the flow of matches, was essential for golfers aiming to maximize their playing time. Short stays are when golfers aim to minimize travel time, as their primary focus is playing golf. For short-term specialized golf travel and long-term golf training, where golfers show a high level of involvement, course management and pricing were key factors in their choice of golf courses in Southeast Asia.
Long-stay golfers generally fall into three categories:
Golf Training
This group includes golfers looking to combine relaxation with skill development. It could range from amateur players investing in improving their skills to professional golfers.
Golfers in this category prioritize courses with excellent operational management, advanced training facilities, and suitable playing conditions to enhance their game.
Leisure Travel
These travelers often go in groups of friends, family, or corporate colleagues, typically consisting of three or more people.
They usually purchase all-inclusive golf packages covering visas, transportation, accommodation, meals, and golf activities.
For corporate groups, trips often include family members and may feature golf courses that can host small tournaments, complete with awards ceremonies and celebratory dinners at the venue.
Retiree Group
Retirees prioritize flexible pricing, higher frequency of play, and dining options that include Korean cuisine whenever possible. Building a sense of community for this group is also a significant advantage.
3. Criteria for Koreans Choosing a Golf Course When Traveling
There is fierce competition between golf courses in Southeast Asia, China, and Japan that attracts Korean golfers. This competition contributed to a 22% drop in average overseas golf travel costs from 2017 to 2023.
Golf Course Location: When traveling, Koreans not only want to play golf but also wish to experience different courses every day. Therefore, they look for locations that have a great selection of golf courses, such as: in Thailand (Phuket, Bangkok), in Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), and in Vietnam (Da Nang, Hanoi, Dalat).
Reasonable Costs: This includes accommodation, travel, food, and green fees.
Reputation of Golf Course Management: Koreans prefer recommendations from groups or advice from friends or family, often referring to them as "fellow Koreans." There are several channels where Koreans share their opinions, such as KakaoTalk, Naver, and Daum. Investing in marketing content on these platforms and booking Korean KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) is highly recommended.
Other criteria such as the attraction of destinations, availability of Korean-speaking staff, and Korean food are also important aspects.
Vietnam has emerged as a promising destination on the golf tourism map for Korean travelers over the past seven years. According to a report from the Department of Tourism, approximately 3 to 4 out of every 10 Korean tourists visiting Vietnam play golf.
Optimizing programs and services for golfers, along with implementing effective marketing strategies tailored to this segment, is essential for each golf course to enhance its competitiveness against rivals.
How about golf in the Vietnam market? Contact Asia Golf Journey for full support, including a comprehensive report on Vietnam tourism and golf.
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