Tom Kim Wins at the Asian Games: He Won’t Have to Serve in the Military

Tom Kim achieved his goal at the Asian Games in Nagoya. Fresh off the Presidents Cup in Medinah—where the international team lost to the United States—the South Korean traveled to Japan to compete in a tournament that was particularly important for his professional future.

In South Korea, in fact, most men must complete at least 18 months of military service before turning 28. However, the law provides for some exceptions for athletes, including an exemption for those who win an Olympic medal or a gold medal at the Asian Games.

Kim had already come close to achieving this at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he narrowly missed the bronze medal. In Nagoya, the 24-year-old—ranked 32nd in the world and a four-time winner on the PGA Tour—thus had another chance to avoid a long hiatus in his career.

Despite the trip and a 14-hour time difference, Kim immediately joined the fight for the win on the Kasugai Country Club course. Leading alone after 54 holes, he faced some difficulties in the final round and temporarily lost the lead. He bounced back with an eagle and five birdies, against just one bogey.

With a final round of 64 and a total of -18, Kim claimed the gold medal. At the end of the competition, he expressed relief above all for a result that will allow him to continue his career without the long hiatus required by regular military service. He will still have to complete a brief period of training.