Kim Yeon-seop claimed his first career victory at the 17th event of the 2026 KPGA David Golf Tour, which carried a total purse of 100 million won ($73,600) and a winner's prize of 20 million won.
Kim fired a 7-under-par 64 in the second round of the tournament, held Thursday and Friday at Solago CC's Sol Course (par 71) in Taean, South Chungcheong Province. He posted a bogey-free 64 on Thursday to finish at 14 under par 128, pulling away from the group tied for second by five strokes.
Claiming his first win 16 years after turning professional, Kim said he was "a bit dazed since it's my first career win, but I feel absolutely great." He added that he hoped to become "a player who gives dreams and hope to young players and fellow professionals who keep working without giving up."
Kim turned pro as an associate member in December 2004 and earned full tour membership in October 2010. His best result on the KPGA Tour came at the 2024 KB Financial Group Liiv Championship, where he finished runner-up. His best finish this season was a share of seventh place at the 69th KPGA Championship, where he carded a 5-under-par 279.
Jung Jae-hoon (29), Byun Young-jae (32, Cowell), Kevin Jeon (41, KCH Energy) and Kwon Oh-sang (31) finished in a four-way tie for second at 9 under par 133, while Lee Sang-won (20) took sole sixth place at 8 under par 134.
yjc@heraldcorp.com
