Daring Slit Dress Steals the Show at Korean Women’s Golf Awards

A Stunning Gathering of Popular Pros

In Japan’s women’s golf tour (JLPGA), the season-ending “JLPGA Awards” is an annual highlight, with players’ glamorous evening wear drawing major attention each year. Across the border in South Korea, the atmosphere was just as electric—perhaps even more so.

On November 28, the 2025 KLPGA Awards Ceremony was held in grand fashion at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, located in the upscale Gangnam district of Seoul. This long-standing event, continuing since 1999, is a golf festival where players honor one another after a year of fierce competition.

The ceremony began with the emcee, Park Kyul—nicknamed the “Barbie of the Golf World” and a one-time tour winner—capturing everyone’s attention in a striking black dress. Usually seen in golf caps and athletic attire, the tour players appeared that night in luxurious gowns, creating a dramatic and beautiful contrast that had photographers snapping away nonstop.

Among the many dazzling outfits, the spotlight shone on 22-year-old Lee Yoolrin, who secured her first tour victory this season and instantly rose in prominence. She wore a chic yet daring black floor-length gown. Its flowing silhouette along the waistline highlighted her perfectly sculpted athlete’s physique, free of any excess.

What drew particular attention was her walk. With each step, the deep thigh-high slit revealed her long, elegant legs, exuding sophistication.

The photographers were especially captivated by her back view. The backless design, elegantly and boldly exposing her back, served as the fashion highlight of the evening. Combined with an elegant updo that revealed her nape, the look exuded mature allure and high-class sophistication.

She demonstrated popularity on par with an idol

While Lee Yoolrin captivated with her visuals, it was 22-year-old Hwang Yu-min, a three-time tour winner, who set the audience alight with overwhelming support rates. Despite being a recommended entrant at this year’s U.S. LPGA Lotte Championship, she claimed her first victory and has already announced participation in the U.S. tour next season.

Following awards chosen by golf journalists, such as the “Skill Development Award,” the fan-voted “Popularity Award” was announced. Hwang Yu-min took first place, marking her second consecutive win. Combining skill and idol-level popularity, she received a luxury sofa worth 8 million won (approximately ¥880,000) in addition to her trophy.

The grand finale of the sparkling evening was 20-year-old new queen Yu Hyun-jo. She achieved a double crown, winning both the “Grand Prize (Annual Queen)” and “Lowest Average Stroke,” becoming the undisputed face of the 2025 season. Particularly noteworthy was her astonishing average stroke of 69.94. Maintaining an average in the 60s throughout a season is no small feat—this marks the first time in four years since Jang Hana in 2021. Her precise and flawless shots spoke volumes.

On stage, Yu Hyun-jo expressed her joy and gratitude:

“I am truly honored to receive the Grand Prize here at the close of this year. This award is not mine alone—it was made possible by those who supported and believed in me when I faltered. I will not be satisfied with this Grand Prize alone. Next year and beyond, I will continue to grow as a player with a stronger heart and greater maturity.”

While retaining a youthful charm, she revealed the strength befitting a top athlete. Other fan-favorite pros, including Lee Ye-won and Park Hyun-kyung, also dazzled in luxurious gowns, having competed in major events like this year’s Japanese women’s tour World Ladies Championship Salonpas Cup.

It wasn’t all about glamorous dresses. A record total of approximately 205 million won (about ¥22 million), combining players’ donations and sponsors’ contributions, was donated to the international NGO World Vision. The event showcased the dynamism and depth of Korean women’s golf, making for an electrifying evening.