Korea’s Challenge on Indian Greens: The Story of Team Korea

New Delhi, India – In the land of India, where the fairways stretch wide and the sun casts its golden glow, a unique chapter of golf is being written by the Korean expatriate community. The Korean Association in India and The Zone Golf Academy have jointly led the movement to form Team Korea, comprising golfing enthusiasts – the Korean expatriates.

And to mark its presence felt with a bang, Team Korea has emerged as the only foreign team participating in the prestigious golf league held at ITC Classic Golf Resort.

Formed in 2023, Team Korea brought together Korean golfers of different skill levels — from seasoned single-handicap players to enthusiastic beginners. What united them was not skill, but passion, and the pride of carrying the Korean name onto Indian soil.

In their debut year, 2023, Team Korea surprised many by advancing to the quarterfinals. By 2024, they had grown stronger and reached the semifinals, ultimately finishing in the top four. Along the way, they became not just golfers, but a new face of the Korean community in India.

The Only Foreign Team: This league at the ITC Classic Golf Club was, by tradition, a stage for Indian players alone. Amid dozens of Indian teams, Team Korea stood out as the sole foreign team. Their very presence was symbolic — weaving together the sweat, pride, and perseverance of expatriates into a living narrative on India’s greens.

Aiming for Victory: Now, in 2025, Team Korea looks ahead with only one goal: the championship. Former novices have grown into strong amateurs, and the collective determination of the team shines brighter than ever.

Behind their journey stand their unwavering supporters: Wonjun Kim, head of The Zone Golf, has provided training facilities, coaching, and operational support. Though a teaching professional himself and thus ineligible to play, he has been both a mentor and a pillar for the team.

The Korean Association in India, led by President Lee Kwang-il and Vice President Jangwoon Hyun, has also stepped forward, lending institutional support and encouragement that has given the players fresh confidence.

The story of Team Korea is more than a sports record. It is about solidarity, resilience, and the pride of a community abroad.

As they prepare for the 2025 league, the Korean players step onto the course not only with clubs in hand, but with the cheers of their fellow expatriates behind them. On these Indian greens, their story continues — one of friendship, perseverance, and the hope of making history as champions.