Kim Baekjun Fires 8-Under, Shows Effect of Backswing Adjustment

KPGA Gunsan CC Open Round 1 Leader
Chance for Second Win of the Season Since April Opener
"It Seems Everything Is Finally Coming Together"

Kim Baekjun has laid the groundwork for his second win of the season.

On June 26, at the tournament course of Gunsan CC in North Jeolla Province (par 72, 7,611 yards), Kim Baekjun took the lead in the first round of the KPGA Gunsan CC Open, the final event of the first half of the KPGA Tour season, by carding eight birdies without a single bogey. Although his fairway accuracy rate was only about half, he showcased sharp iron shots to claim the top spot on the leaderboard. He finished the round one stroke ahead of Lee Soomin (7-under-par 65), who previously won this tournament in 2013 and 2015.

Kim Baekjun is teeing off at the 3rd hole during the first round of the KPGA Gunsan CC Open. Photo by KPGA

Kim Baekjun is in his second year on the KPGA Tour. After claiming his first victory at the season opener, the DB Insurance Promy Open in April, he is now aiming for his second trophy. This year, he has finished in the top 10 five times and is currently ranked second in the Genesis Points standings with 2,820.11 points. The leader is Ok Taehun with 3,940.90 points.

Kim Baekjun said, "After recently adjusting my backswing, my timing was a bit off, but now it seems to be coming together," and added, "The course has gotten quite a bit longer, but my tee shots were much better than last week, and both my iron shots and putting were good, so I am satisfied with my performance."

Last year, Kim Baekjun also led after firing a 9-under-par in the first round of this tournament, but eventually finished tied for 13th. He commented, "Last year, as a rookie, I was just busy feeling nervous whenever I got near the top, but I think this year will be a bit better," and added, "I will focus on the present and play well for the remaining holes."

The total prize fund for this tournament is set at 700 million won, with the winner's prize at 104 million won. The final prize money will be determined by adding revenue from gallery tickets for rounds 1 to 3, as well as food, beverage, and merchandise sales.