Tom Kim needs a win at 2026 Asian Games to avoid military service

Tom Kim stared down thousands of raucous American fans and a loaded U.S. roster and still found a way to go 4-1 for the International Team in the Presidents Cup. As stressful as the week must've been for the 24-year-old PGA Tour star, it doesn't compare to the pressure he's about to face in his next tournament. 

After defeating Wyndham Clark, 3&2, in Sunday singles, Kim couldn't stick around to see the final result because he had to catch a flight to Japan. There, he will compete in the 2026 Asian Games at Kasugi Country Club with much more than just a trophy on the line. If Kim wins a gold medal in the men's individual or team competition at the Asian Games, he will be exempt from his mandatory military service in South Korea. 

In South Korea, able-bodied male citizens are required by law to complete between 18 and 21 months of military service by age 28. The only exemptions available are for athletes or classical musicians. For golfers specifically, they can be excused from military service if they win a gold medal at the Asian Games or any medal at the Olympic Games. 

The pressure will be immense for Kim this week. The Asian Games, like the Olympic Games, are held every four years, so this is Kim's last opportunity to win a gold medal before he turns 28. If he doesn't win the individual or team competition this week, his last chance to avoid military service will come at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Calif.

South Korean golfers and military service