Kami-Style Beauty Captivates Fans as Korean Golf’s Sexy Queen Eyes Playing in Japan

The Beautiful Long-Hitter Who Knows Japan Well

“The level in Japan is really high and attractive. I’m a fan myself!”

On March 5, the domestic women’s professional golf tour for this season kicked off. Before the long and glamorous competition that continues until the end of November, a popular Korean pro, known as a big Japan expert, sent her support from across the sea.

Her name is Yoo Hyun-joo (31). With looks that could easily be mistaken for a K-POP idol, plus a tall height of 172 cm, her sleek godly style comparable to top models and a playing style that hits an average distance of 250 yards has won fans, and she boasts over 400,000 followers on Instagram.

In fact, she challenged the QT (qualifying tournament) for the right to compete in the Japan tour in 2018, and in 2019, she participated in the Yamaha Ladies through a recommendation. When told that she also has many fans in Japan, she showed a bright smile.

“I really like the courses in Japan because they’re beautiful. There are big trees that act as obstacles, and many greens are elevated and small, so compared to Korea, it feels more difficult. Maybe that’s why Japanese players refine their skills.
One person who left an impression on me was Erika Hara (27) whom I played with from the first day of the Yamaha tournament! She’s tall, hits long distances with her driver, and above all, I thought she was cute and wonderful.”

She was also surprised by the penseum in Japan — the enthusiasm and reactions of the galleries and fans toward the players.

“After the match, a large number of spectators lined up properly to wait. During play, it was very quiet, and everyone was focused on watching golf. In Korea, many fans cheer loudly like idol fans, making matching T-shirts, goods, and even fans (uchiwa). So I was really surprised by the politeness of Japanese fans.”

Loves Japanese Food Too Much!

Yoo Hyun-joo still dreams of playing in Japan. “If I can participate, I definitely want to! Organizers, I’m waiting for your call~~!” she eagerly added.

Although she has only played a round on the domestic tour once, she has already visited Japan over 20 times privately. Her favorite food is sukiyaki.

“What I especially love is Serina in Ginza, Tokyo. The first time I tried it, it was so delicious I was shocked! Also ramen, sushi, yakiniku even convenience store sandwiches and desserts are too good, so whenever I go to Japan, I feel like I always come back heavier (laughs). I also enjoy walking around Omotesando and Ginza. I like vintage items, so exploring Japanese shops and finding good items is fun too.”

Known as the “Sexy Queen” among Japanese golf fans, Yoo Hyun-joo says, “No matter the reputation, it’s great as a pro to have people interested in you,” and her expression reveals the pride of the steady effort she’s put in.

“In the off-season, in addition to practicing golf, I do weight training two to three times a week. I’ve always been slim I started golf in elementary school, but back then my dad made me do push-ups every day. At first, I could only do five, but I eventually got to over 300 (laughs). I still include that in my training now.”

When asked about her goals for this season, she hesitated, saying, “If I set a specific goal, for some reason it doesn’t go well (laughs),” but added:

“Right now, I just want to enjoy golf. That’s the most important thing. Japan has really given me only great memories. I definitely want to play there again!”

We can’t help but hope to see her brave performance on the domestic tour.

From the March 13-20, 2026 issue of “FRIDAY”