Joseongjun, CEO of XGolf and ShowGolf, "The Maverick of the Golf World"

Golf Reservation Platform XGolf 'Domestic No. 1' Thrives
Innovative Golf Practice Brand 'ShowGolf' Gains Popularity
Swing Analyzer 'Mibo' and New Investment Opportunities in Japanese Golf Courses

Josungjun, CEO of XGolf/ShowGolf, is a 'maverick in the golf world' who has achieved success with a golf reservation platform and an innovative outdoor golf practice range.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] The "maverick of the golf world" is a perfect description for Seongjun Jo, CEO of XGolf and ShowGolf. He made a significant mark in the domestic golf industry by creating XGolf, a golf reservation platform, and not stopping there, he successfully launched ShowGolf last year, an innovative outdoor golf practice range targeting the MZ generation (Millennials + Generation Z). Expanding further, he began selling the swing analyzer Mibo and is also developing a golf course business in Japan aimed at the retired generation.

In an interview with Asia Economy on the 2nd, CEO Jo smiled brightly, saying, "I was lucky to succeed," and added, "My dream is to create a company where all members are happy."

◆ ‘The 5 Million Won Man’ = CEO Jo worked for four years before deciding there was no vision in his job and started looking for business opportunities. He chose golf after considering an item that would make people happy and improve their health. In 2003, he established Greenworks and took a bold step with the online booking service XGolf. He invested 5 million won out of the 50 million won capital for the corporation. The remaining 45 million won was borrowed from a judicial scrivener to start the business.

Although he was initially rejected at golf courses, he did not give up. Through persistence and effort, the number of affiliated golf courses grew from five to over 350. In the early days, SBS Golf was the only competitor. Now, even large companies like Kakao have entered the booking business.

CEO Jo smiled, saying, "At first, I was ridiculed with questions like who would pay to book, but this reckless challenge succeeded."

Cho Sung-jun, CEO of XGolf/ShowGolf, has launched ShowGolf, a new concept golf practice range that is gaining popularity.

◆ ‘A Series of Bold Moves’ = The online booking business pie is shrinking. CEO Jo thought it was time for change. Using the "No. 1 domestic" golf reservation platform as a stepping stone, he launched the practice range brand ShowGolf, which became a huge success in just two years. Marketing that considers young customers and families is bearing fruit. Starting with the Gimpo Airport branch, it expanded to Yeouido and Gayang branches. The Dobong branch is scheduled to open next year.

The scene is different from typical practice ranges. Tasks previously done at the front desk have been replaced by kiosks. Cash is not accepted in stores. There is no strict dress code. Customers swing while enjoying pizza and beer. They listen to music they choose through speakers. At night, the lighting makes the place even more dazzling. It is the moment golf transforms from a social space into a fun playground. CEO Jo emphasized, "Although some elderly customers left, they have returned now. I prefer lightheartedness over seriousness. Having fun and playing excitedly is the best."

Jongjun Cho, CEO of XGolf/ShowGolf, is attempting to diversify his business by importing Mibo, a swing analyzer from FlightScope.

◆ ‘Ongoing Challenges’ = CEO Jo is also deeply considering future growth areas. First, he is focusing on the new digital wave combined with IT technology. Recently, he signed an exclusive domestic distribution contract with the global high-tech company FlightScope and introduced the swing analyzers Mibo and Mibo Plus to practice ranges. Mibo is designed for easy use by the general public. It provides various data such as ball direction, angle, distance, and spin amount. CEO Jo expressed, "Using Mibo will greatly help improve skills."

He is also active in overseas business. He is pursuing the acquisition of golf courses in Japan and has already visited over 50 locations personally. He believes that as the generation born in the 1970s retires, demand for golf will increase. CEO Jo analyzed, "Playing golf domestically is costly, and I think the Japanese golf market will grow in the future." He is also preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). "I look forward to seeing how our company will change after going public," he said.