Exploring Golf in Korea: A Round at Castle Pine CC in Yeoju

 Exploring Golf in Korea: A Round at Castle Pine CC in Yeoju

If you're a golf enthusiast curious about Korea’s golfing scene, you're in for a unique experience. Korea may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of golf, but it offers a vibrant and growing golf culture with stunning courses, high-tech amenities, and a distinct service-oriented approach.

korea golf

🏌️‍♂️ Golfing in Korea: What Makes It Special?

Korean golf courses are known for their meticulous maintenance, challenging layouts, and exceptional service. Most courses are nestled in mountainous terrain, offering dramatic elevation changes and scenic views. Unlike many Western countries, golf in Korea is a premium experience, often accompanied by caddies, on-course refreshments, and luxurious clubhouses.

korea golf clubhouse

Key trends in Korean golf:

⛳ Castle Pine Country Club – Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province

Located about 2 hours southeast of Seoul, Castle Pine CC is a public 18-hole course designed by David Rainville. It features Bentgrass greens, narrow fairways, and dogleg-heavy layouts, making it a strategic challenge for all skill levels.

korea golf

Course highlights:

  • Par 72, 7033 yards
  • Undulating terrain with limited visibility of greens
  • Well-maintained greens but relatively slow speed
  • Fairways are tight, favoring accuracy over distance
    korea golf

Fees (as of 2025):

  • Green Fee: ₩140,000–₩190,000 on weekdays (~$105–$145 USD)
  • Caddie Fee: ₩150,000 per group (~$115 USD)
  • Cart Fee: ₩100,000 per cart (~$77 USD)

📊 Korean Golf Landscape

South Korea boasts over 500 golf courses, with a mix of public and private clubs. The majority are located in the central and southern regions, including Gyeonggi-do, Gangwon-do, and Jeju Island. Despite limited land, Korea has rapidly expanded its golf infrastructure, driven by rising domestic interest and international recognition.


Unique features:

  • Night golf: Many courses offer illuminated night rounds.
  • Seasonal variation: Spring and autumn are peak seasons; summer and winter rounds are less popular due to weather.
  • Reservation system: Tee times are often booked weeks in advance, especially on weekends.

🌍 Korea vs. International Golf (U.S. Focus)

Feature South Korea United States
Caddie Requirement Mandatory (most courses) Optional or rare
Cart Usage Required Optional
Solo Play Rare Common
Tee Time Booking Competitive, often weeks ahead Flexible, often same-day possible
Night Golf Popular Rare
Green Fee Range $100–$250 USD $30–$150 USD

While American golf emphasizes accessibility and flexibility, Korean golf leans toward premium service and structured play. This makes for a more curated and social experience, though often at a higher cost.




If you're planning a golf trip to Korea or just curious about how golf is played on the other side of the world, Castle Pine CC and the broader Korean golf culture offer a fascinating glimpse into a sport that’s both familiar and refreshingly different.

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