Fans Delighted Over Korean Golf’s “Sexy Queen” and Her Graceful Play

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South Korean professional golfer Yoo Hyun-Ju (31) participated in the “Celltrion Queens Masters” held from June 6 to 8 on the Korean women’s tour, receiving a sponsor’s invitation to compete.

It marked her first appearance in a KLPGA First Division Tour event since the season opener in April—her second appearance this year. Aiming simply to make the cut, she focused on playing steady golf. However, inconsistent shots plagued her performance: she carded a 75 on Day 1 (2 birdies, 3 bogeys, 1 double bogey), and a 76 on Day 2 (1 birdie, 5 bogeys), finishing at 7-over par and tied for 109th—missing the cut.

As a fan-favorite, Yoo drew a sizable crowd of spectators and photographers from the first day. Despite the disappointing result, she didn’t forget to smile for the cameras, showing her trademark poise.

Her striking figure and fashion-forward golf wear—often admired even by fellow female golfers—have earned her around 390,000 followers on Instagram. While she is in high demand among sponsors, her performance as a tour professional has yet to deliver strong results. Ahead of this season, she commented:

“Just because it’s a Second Division Tour doesn’t mean it’s meaningless. If there’s a stage where I can show the results of my efforts and demonstrate my skills, I’m fine playing anywhere.”

However, this year, she has only participated in the qualifying events that grant access to the Second Division Tour. Now 31, Yoo may be approaching a time when she must seriously consider her future as a professional golfer—though she has not made any statements hinting at retirement.

During the off-season, she dedicated herself to swing adjustments and refinements, which she says are mostly complete. Her passion for the game remains intact:

“The more I play golf, the harder it gets—but I’m gradually starting to enjoy it,” she said with a smile.

Outside of golf, Yoo has remained active. This month, her sponsor Doosan Engineering & Construction donated 17 million won (about 1.8 million yen) to the Busan Community Chest of Korea. The donation came from ticket and merchandise sales during the “Doosan E&C We’ve Championship”—a KLPGA event Yoo also played in by special invitation. She was present for the donation ceremony, continuing her role as a brand ambassador.

That said, what Yoo Hyun-Ju truly needs now are results on the course. In 2020, she competed in 10 First Division KLPGA events but failed to earn full tour status, remaining limited to the Second Division. Since turning pro in 2011, she has yet to claim a single victory. For now, her goal will be to enter tournaments more regularly, contend near the top, and make headlines not only for her style—but for her golf.