Would become only second player in KLPGA history to win same major three times in a row, after the late Ku Ok-hee in 1982

Seo Gyo-rim, Kim Min-sol rivalry adds another layer of intrigue

Yoo Hyun-jo tees off during the first round of the Aurora World Championship at Aurora Golf & Resort in Wonju in July. [KLPGA]
Yoo Hyun-jo tees off during the first round of the Aurora World Championship at Aurora Golf & Resort in Wonju in July. [KLPGA]

"Defending the KB Financial Championship title last year after so many disappointments makes it all the more memorable. I'm simply grateful to have the chance to pursue a third consecutive title."

Yoo Hyun-jo (21, Lotte) is chasing the rare feat of winning the same major championship three years in a row.

The KB Financial Golden Life Championship — the third major and 23rd event of the 2026 KLPGA Tour season — carries a purse of 1.5 billion won ($1.12 million), with a winner's share of 270 million won. It runs Thursday through Sunday at Blackstone Icheon Golf Club (par 72) in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province.

With 120 top players in the field, Yoo is by far the most closely watched. She claimed her first career victory at this event in the 2024 season and successfully defended the title last year. A third straight win would make her only the second player in KLPGA Tour history to win the same major three consecutive times, after the late Ku Ok-hee.

Ku won the KLPGA Championship in 1980, 1981 and 1982, becoming the first player to win three consecutive titles at a single major.

Speaking through the tournament organizers Tuesday, Yoo said she was ready for the challenge despite some uncertainty. "I sat out the two tournaments before this with a wrist injury, so I cannot guarantee my match sharpness," she said. "But my overall condition is good, and I plan to lead with precise shot-making and play every moment without regret."

Choi Ye-rim poses with the winner's trophy after claiming victory at the OK Savings Bank Eotman Open. [KLPGA]
Choi Ye-rim poses with the winner's trophy after claiming victory at the OK Savings Bank Eotman Open. [KLPGA]

Choi Ye-rim (27, Huons), who broke through for her first career win at the previous event — the OK Savings Bank Eotman Open — after nine runner-up finishes, will look to carry that momentum into back-to-back victories.

"I've received far more congratulations and support after my first win than I could have imagined, and I'm overwhelmed with gratitude," Choi said. "My ball-striking and putting feel sharp, so I think back-to-back wins are possible as long as I manage my energy well. I'll play precise golf to match the demanding nature of the greens here."

The renewed rivalry between Seo Gyo-rim (20, Samchully) and Kim Min-sol (20, Doosan Engineering & Construction We've) also draws attention, with the two meeting again three weeks after the BC Card·Hankyung 48th KLPGA Championship. Each has won one of the season's two previous majors, and the question of who will be first to claim two major titles in a single season adds another compelling storyline.

Kim finished third at the previous event to reclaim the top spot on the money list. A victory here would pull her level with Seo at four wins this season. Seo, on the other hand, would pull clear with five wins and tighten her grip on the season standings.

Founded in 2006, the KB Financial tournament rebrands this year from the Star Championship to the KB Financial Golden Life Championship.


yjc@heraldcorp.com