Heo Inhoe, 'Vanished from the Field,' Admits to Ban for Banned Substance Use

Admitted to Taking Painkillers via Social Media
No Intentional Wrongdoing, Suspended for Six Months
Set to Return After Suspension Ends on July 22

Heo Inhoe belatedly revealed that he had received a suspension from competition due to the use of banned substances.

On May 8, through his social media account, he stated, "I have been sanctioned with a six-month suspension from competition by the Korea Anti-Doping Agency for allegedly using a banned substance called 'tramadol.' I have symptoms of gout, so I occasionally took medication containing tramadol, a painkiller, with a doctor's prescription." By disclosing this, he explained the reason why he had not participated in any domestic or international tournaments this year. The suspension period is from January 23 to July 22.

KPGA announced that Heo Inhoe has been suspended from competition for six months due to the use of banned substances.

Tramadol was not a banned substance until 2023, but starting last year, its use during competition periods became prohibited. Heo Inhoe explained, "Due to my carelessness, I was completely unaware of the newly changed regulations, and my doctor was also unaware of the updated rules when prescribing the medication, which led to this situation." Because there was no intent, the suspension was reduced to six months.

Heo Inhoe said, "I had to endure a difficult time until the final decision was made at the end of April," and added, "Many fans came to the tournament venue expecting me to compete, but since the final decision had not yet been made, I am sorry that I could not inform you in advance. I sincerely apologize to the association, sponsors, tournament partners, and all the fans who have supported me for any concern I have caused. While I am unable to compete, I will work even harder to prepare and greet you with a better performance in the second half of the year."

Heo Inhoe is expected to return to the Korea Professional Golf Association (KPGA) Tour at the KPGA Founders Cup, the opening event of the second half of the KPGA Tour, which begins on September 4. The KPGA Tour will conclude with the Gunsan CC Open on June 29 and will not hold any events in July and August. There is a high possibility that Heo Inhoe will make his return at an overseas tour event in August. Heo Inhoe has achieved a total of six wins on the KPGA Tour.