‘Ogu Play’ Yoonina, Disciplinary Reduction... Early Return in April

KLPGA Reduces Suspension from 3 Years to 1 Year 6 Months
Disciplinary Action Until March 19, Comeback at Domestic Season Opener in April

‘Ogu Play’ Yoon Ina is returning to the field.

The Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) held its first board meeting of 2024 on the 8th and reduced Yoon Ina's suspension period from 3 years to 1 year and 6 months. The board announced, "We had an in-depth discussion regarding the recommendation from the KLPGA Tour Disciplinary Committee to reduce Yoon Ina's penalty. We have decided to lessen Yoon Ina's suspension." They added, "We considered the positions of sponsors, golf officials, golf fans, all members, as well as the penalty reduction by the Korea Golf Association (KGA) for Yoon Ina. After a lengthy discussion, the decision was made by vote."

Yoo Yina

In June 2022, Yoon Ina caused controversy by playing with a ball that was not hers during the Korea Women's Open and reported the incident late despite knowing about it. As the rule violation was revealed belatedly, she received penalties from both the KGA and KLPGA, resulting in a 3-year ban from domestic tournaments. During this time, Yoon Ina engaged in community service and participated in minor league golf tournaments in the United States, donating the prize money she earned as a period of self-reflection.

In September last year, Yoon Ina requested a reduction of her penalty from the KGA and received a reduction from 3 years to 1 year and 6 months. However, she was only allowed to participate in the upcoming Korea Women's Open in June, which is hosted by the KGA. The KLPGA, at its 10th board meeting in 2023 on the 14th of last month, was unable to reach a conclusion regarding the reduction of Yoon Ina's penalty and deferred the decision to this meeting, ultimately allowing her early return.

Yoon Ina will not be able to participate in two foreign tournaments scheduled in March as they take place before the suspension period ends. She is expected to appear at the domestic season opener, the Doosan Construction We’ve Championship, in April. Equipped with powerful long drives, Yoon Ina rose to stardom by winning her first victory at the KLPGA Tour Ever Collagen Queens Crown in July 2022. However, due to a momentary lapse in judgment, she was penalized and has been unable to compete in tournaments until now.