Ben An becomes the new captain of Korean Golf Club, moving to LIV Golf after a decade on the PGA Tour.
Korean Golf Club: New Identity Brings Cultural Influence to LIV Golf
The Iron Heads Golf Club will now compete under the name Korean Golf Club (KGC). This renaming accompanies a comprehensive realignment that deliberately extends beyond sports aspects. The club positions itself as an expression of Korea’s growing influence on international golf and as a platform for a modern yet culturally rooted golfing experience.
A central focus of the new identity is Korean culture. Traditional values form the foundation of the new brand image. Inspiration comes from the Korean understanding of brotherhood and values such as honor, cohesion, and inclusion. Visually, this is conveyed through traditional symbols. The Korean Golf Club’s logo features the white tiger (Baekho), a venerable figure in Korean history and folklore symbolizing strength and resilience. In a subtle design nod, the tiger’s eyes and nose bridge form two golf clubs. The emblem is complemented by the Rose of Sharon, South Korea’s national flower.
The impetus for the rebranding came from the LIV Golf Korea Event 2025. Fans inspired the club’s leadership to embrace the dynamism of Korean culture.
New Identity, New Captain
Fitting the new identity, Ben An will become captain of the Korean Golf Club starting in 2026, leading an all-Korean team including Danny Lee, Younghan Song, and Minkyu Kim. The 34-year-old is regarded as one of the most renowned Korean golfers of his generation. After a decade on the PGA Tour, he is now turning his back on it.
An made history early: in 2009, at age 17, he became the youngest player to win the U.S. Amateur Championship. He attracted international attention in 2015 by winning the BMW PGA Championship, becoming the first Asian player to do so. That same year, he was also voted Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year. He represented South Korea multiple times at major international events such as the Olympic Games.
His move to LIV Golf marks not only a sporting but also a personal turning point. After previously expressing critical public views about the league on X, distancing himself from switching from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf for sporting reasons, he now speaks of a conscious new beginning: \”After the 2025 season, I felt it was time for a new chapter and a new challenge.\” He is particularly excited about the mentoring role: \”I’ve always been passionate about supporting young players and fostering the next generation.\”
Introducing, Korean Golf Club 😤🔥#WelcomeToTheClub pic.twitter.com/dT2i