11th edition of tournament built on 'players-first' philosophy
Gallery plaza to feature prizes, stamp tour and heart-shaped bread
Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance announced Wednesday that it will co-host the Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance Choi Kyung-ju Invitational with the Choi Kyung-ju Welfare Foundation from Thursday through Sunday at Ferrum Club in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province.
Now in its 11th year, the tournament carries a total prize purse of 1.25 billion won ($919,000), with the winner taking home 250 million won. Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance and Korean golf legend Choi Kyung-ju have been closely involved in every aspect of the event's preparation, from course setup to player support and crafting a special experience for spectators.
The field will feature top KPGA Tour players competing for the title. Joining tournament host Choi are defending champion Jeon Ga-ram and Ham Jeong-woo, who has won twice at Ferrum Club. National team members and the top two-ranked amateurs, Son Je-i and Kim Min-su, will also compete, making this an event that bridges generations — promising young talent alongside seasoned veterans.
True to its players-first philosophy, the tournament has again left nothing to chance for its competitors. Entry fees are waived, and the Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance Hi-Vision Center serves as the official accommodation for players and caddies. The pro-am has been dropped in favor of two dedicated practice days, and this year a club-cleaning service has been added to help players perform at their best.
The gallery plaza will offer a range of events for spectators, including prize draws, food stalls and a stamp tour. Raffle winners can take home massage devices, golf rounds and health supplements. A highlight will be freshly baked "heart bread" — a nod to the company's brand slogan — handed out free to visitors at the venue. A rest area called the "Good & Good Care Zone" will be set up at the 11th-hole green, offering sunscreen, cooling patches and ice cream.
"We have prepared meticulously once again so that players can focus entirely on their game," a Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance official said. "We hope everyone enjoys the players' brilliant shots and all the events we have lined up for the gallery."
won@heraldcorp.com
