Kim wins Asian Games gold to secure military exemption

What the report says

Golf’s Tom Kim won the men’s individual title at the Asian Games in Japan, a result that secures him an exemption from South Korea’s mandatory military service, according to BBC Sport. Kim, 24, entered the final round as leader and closed with a six-under-par 64 to finish 18 under overall, winning by three strokes.

The BBC reported that Kim’s round featured five birdies and an eagle, with a bogey on the 17th creating a brief moment of tension before he finished safely on the last hole. His victory means he can continue his professional career with little interruption, rather than facing the standard requirement for able-bodied South Korean men to complete military service before age 28.

South Korea’s system typically requires service of around 18 to 21 months, though the government grants exemptions to Asian Games gold medallists and Olympic medal-winners, apart from a short basic training period. The report noted that other athletes, including former Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min, have previously benefited from the same rule.

BBC Sport also said Kim had travelled from the Presidents Cup in the United States and coped with a long time difference and limited rest before competing at Kasugai Country Club in Japan. The win adds to an already successful season for Kim and was especially significant after he had narrowly missed a similar exemption opportunity at the Paris Olympics.