SEOUL, October 07 (AJP) - South Korean female golfer Hwang You-min climbed to 33rd in the world rankings after capturing her first Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour title at the Lotte Championship in Hawaii, securing a direct entry to the U.S.-based circuit.
In the latest Women's World Golf Rankings released Tuesday, Hwang jumped 20 spots from 53rd to 33rd following her victory at Hoakalei Country Club in Oahu on Sunday. The 22-year-old carded a final-round 5-under 67 to finish at 17-under 271 overall, edging out compatriot Kim Hyo-joo and becoming the sixth South Korean player to win on the LPGA Tour this year.
The win, achieved through a sponsor’s invitation from her main backer Lotte, earned her $450,000 in prize money and a full LPGA Tour membership. Under LPGA rules, Hwang can either begin her U.S. career immediately or defer her status until the start of the 2026 season.
Before her breakout in Hawaii, Hwang had already established herself as one of the most promising players on the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) Tour. She joined the KLPGA in 2023 and captured two titles within her first two seasons. Known for her calm temperament and precise iron play, she quickly built a reputation as one of the most consistent young players on tour.
Born in 2003, Hwang began playing golf as a child and represented South Korea internationally as an amateur before turning professional. Her strong fundamentals and level-headed style have drawn comparisons to veteran Kim Hyo-joo, who finished runner-up at the same event.
The Lotte Championship victory also boosted the global standing of South Korean golf, which continues to be a dominant force in women’s golf. Kim Hyo-joo moved up one place to eighth in the world rankings, Yoo Hae-ran stayed at 13th, and Ko Jin-young climbed three spots to 18th. Kim Min-sol, who won last week’s KLPGA Dongbu Construction–Korea Land & Housing Championship, rose 43 places to 75th.
Hwang’s path now mirrors that of several South Korean players who made their names on the LPGA Tour, including Pak Se-ri, Park In-bee, and Shin Ji-yai.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
