Korean Sport & Olympic Committee signs MOU with museum foundation for Asian Games Korea House

The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee signed an MOU with the National Museum of Korea Cultural Foundation on Tuesday regarding the operation of a Korea House at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. According to the committee, a pop-up store at the Korea House venue will carry not only products featuring the Team Korea logo but also MU:DS, a line of museum cultural merchandise that has gained popularity among younger generations at home and abroad. The signing ceremony was held Monday at the National Museum of Korea Cultural Foundation in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, with Korean Sport & Olympic Committee President Yu Seung-min and National Museum of Korea Cultural Foundation President Jeong Yong-seok in attendance. The two organizations agreed to begin their partnership with the Korea House operation at the Asian Games and to collaborate on jointly planning, developing and promoting products that draw on sports and cultural resources, as well as identifying further cooperative projects. "I am deeply pleased that this agreement will allow us to showcase the appeal of Korean sports and culture together at the Korea House during the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games," Yu said. "We will continue to make active use of major international multi-sport events and the Korea House to create diverse opportunities for people around the world to experience and connect with Korea up close." Jeong said the foundation would build on the Korea House collaboration to expand the partnership between Team Korea and MU:DS, promote the appeal of Korean sports and culture both at home and abroad, and continue to introduce a range of products and content that leverage the strengths of both organizations.

Sept. 8, 2026

Seoul, Jeju sports clubs bond over friendly games

Seoul and Jeju Island have come together through recreational sports. The Seoul Metropolitan Sports Council announced Tuesday that athletes from the two sides took part in the "Seoul-Jeju Recreational Sports Friendship Exchange," a three-day event that ran from Thursday. The Seoul delegation comprised 51 athletes — volleyball, mountaineering and table tennis enthusiasts — while the Jeju Island team fielded about 100 participants, with both sides competing in friendly matches to strengthen ties. Now in its 17th year, the event was organized to build a foundation for recreational sports development between the two regions and to promote ongoing sports exchanges. The Seoul delegation arrived on Jeju Island on Thursday and enjoyed a yacht tour along the scenic coastline off Dodu Port before attending a welcome dinner at the banquet hall of the Ramada City Hotel. The following day, Friday, volleyball and table tennis matches were held at the Jeju Complex Gymnasium, while the mountaineering contingent bonded by climbing Jeolmul Oreum together. Jeju Island Sports Council Chairman Shin Jin-seong welcomed the Seoul delegation, expressing hope that the athletes would "create wonderful memories while competing together during the exchange." Seoul Metropolitan Sports Council Chairman Kang Tae-seon responded warmly, saying he was "very happy to visit Jeju, my hometown," and expressing hope that the two sides would "share various sports programs and hold competitions to build a healthy urban community." He also thanked Jeju for the invitation, adding, "Let's meet again next year in Seoul, in even better health."

Sept. 8, 2026

Yoo Hyun-jo eyes historic third straight major title at KB Financial Golden Life Championship

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 "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 (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.

Sept. 8, 2026

Pereira calls for Gane rematch, bypassing Hooker

Former two-division champion wants immediate title shot; Aspinall's delayed return boosts chances Former two-division UFC champion Alex Pereira (39, Brazil) has said he wants a rematch with Ciryl Gane following their controversial first meeting, and plans to jump straight back into heavyweight title contention without an interim bout. Pereira addressed speculation about his next opponent in a recent social media video. "A lot of people are talking about who I'll fight next, and I've been seeing all the opinions," he said. "The one that makes the most sense is a fight with Ciryl Gane. I'm going to work to make that happen. I think that's actually what's going to happen." Pereira and Gane met in the co-main event of UFC Freedom 250, a one-off special event held at the White House in June. Fighting in his heavyweight debut, Pereira was stopped by second-round KO in what was billed as an interim heavyweight title bout, falling short of what would have been a historic third divisional championship. Josh Hooker had initially been floated as Pereira's next opponent. Hooker repeatedly called out Pereira after the loss to Gane, demanding a fight. Pereira, however, made clear that Gane is the only opponent he is interested in. His goal is a swift rematch and a third championship belt. "There was an illegal strike in the last fight," Pereira said. "If I get another chance, I think I can show what I'm capable of. I'm really looking forward to that third belt, and I'm going to work for it." Pereira has maintained that Gane landed multiple illegal strikes to the back of his head late in the fight while referee Herb Dean allowed the action to continue without intervention. In Pereira's view, had Dean stopped the bout and taken appropriate action against Gane's fouls, the outcome could have been different. Gane, who has been waiting for a unification bout against undisputed heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, has also signaled openness to the rematch — particularly as Aspinall's return appears increasingly uncertain. Aspinall stopped his defense against Gane at UFC 321 last October after suffering repeated eye-gouging fouls, and the bout was ruled a no contest. A rematch had been expected as early as the second half of this year, but Aspinall's manager Eddie Hearn recently said concerns about Aspinall's eye condition remain and that further medical evaluation is needed. For Gane, who holds the interim title, waiting indefinitely for Aspinall risks leaving him on the sidelines for too long. UFC has every reason to keep Pereira — whose box-office pull trails only Conor McGregor's — active and in high-profile bouts, particularly when a title is on the line. A prolonged absence by Aspinall only strengthens the case further. The logic for matching Pereira against Gane rather than Hooker appears sound.

Sept. 8, 2026

McGregor fires back at Trump's moon claim: 'The sun is Ireland's'

The two have publicly praised each other for years Trump naming Khabib as his favorite UFC fighter once drew McGregor's fury UFC legend Conor McGregor (38, Ireland) fired back at US President Donald Trump's claim that the moon is American territory — staking out Ireland's ownership of the sun. When prediction market platform Polymarket shared Trump's Truth Social post Monday (Korean Standard Time), McGregor responded in his trademark swaggering style. Quoting the post, he wrote, "The sun is Ireland's!" and added an Irish flag emoji. His claim to the solar system's central star was, of course, a joke. At first glance, the leader of the world's most powerful nation and the once-most-popular fighter on the planet may seem to have little in common — but a flair for braggadocio is an obvious shared trait. The two are well known to have cultivated a friendship over the years, regardless of their very different stations in life. McGregor paid an official visit to the White House last March, calling Trump's work ethic "inspiring," and the two have publicly praised each other across various social media platforms. During Trump's first term, in January 2020, McGregor defeated Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 and the two exchanged warm words shortly after — McGregor calling Trump "a remarkable president, possibly the greatest of all time" and congratulating him on "a big win." When Trump met with the Irish prime minister last March, he praised McGregor, saying, "Conor is great — his tattoos are the best I've ever seen." McGregor responded on social media: "Thank you, Mr. President." Their business ties have also grown considerably closer of late. According to corporate filings, American Ventures and Donald Trump Jr., the president's eldest son, led a $23 million investment into McGregor's company, MMA Inc. McGregor has even taken aim at Trump — no small thing for a man world leaders tread carefully around. The trigger came in 2024, when Trump told streamer Adin Ross in an interview that Khabib Nurmagomedov was his favorite UFC fighter. Furious at being passed over, McGregor called the choice "a shocking pick" on social media and sarcastically added that naming a Russian fighter was "a campaign-ending decision." As a fighter, McGregor is in a precarious twilight. In July, he returned to the octagon for the first time in five years only to suffer a first-round TKO loss to Max Holloway due to injury. He has outlined plans for another comeback, though the earliest realistic timeline is around July next year. Even so, his ability to trade quips with the world's most powerful leader and capture the public's attention remains very much intact.

Sept. 8, 2026

Hyundai Motor takes over Champions League car partner slot vacated by Nissan

Automaker fills car sponsorship gap empty for 5 seasons Ioniq 3 to reach European customers through UCL stage Five new models set for Europe from this year through next year Football push expands after World Cup, Inter Miami deals Hyundai Motor is extending its global football marketing reach from the North and Central America World Cup to Europe's premier club competition, the UEFA Champions League. Over the next five years, the automaker plans to put its brand in front of football fans worldwide while using the tournament as a stage to promote new European-market models, including the Ioniq 3. Hyundai Motor announced Tuesday it has signed a multi-year deal to serve as the official automotive partner of the UEFA Champions League for five seasons, from this year through 2031. The partnership also covers the UEFA Super Cup, the UEFA Youth League and the UEFA Futsal Champions League. The deal marks the return of an automotive brand as an official Champions League partner for the first time in five seasons. Since the competition launched in 1992, the automotive slot was held by Ford through 2013, then by Nissan from 2014 to 2021. Nissan, which was grappling with poor earnings and restructuring pressure at the time, chose not to renew when its contract expired in 2021, citing a decision to redirect its global sponsorship resources elsewhere. The automotive partner slot has been vacant since Nissan's departure, and Hyundai Motor now fills it. Hyundai Motor has long made football a cornerstone of its global brand marketing. The company first partnered with FIFA in 1999 and has sponsored major international tournaments including the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup. Kia joined the effort in 2006, and Hyundai Motor Group extended its FIFA partnership through 2030 in 2023. The automaker also participated as an official partner at the 2026 North and Central America World Cup held this past summer. Following the World Cup, Hyundai Motor broadened its football marketing to individual clubs. Hyundai Motor America signed a multi-year partnership in July with Inter Miami CF — the Major League Soccer club where Lionel Messi plays — becoming its official automotive partner. The company operates a "Hyundai Club" at the team's home stadium and is securing a brand presence at the new Miami Freedom Park, deepening its connection with North American football fans. The automaker also has a history with European football. Hyundai Motor and Kia previously sponsored the UEFA European Championship, serving as official partners through the 2016 tournament. This time, the company returns not to a national-team competition but to the Champions League, where the world's top clubs compete. The Champions League is the world's largest annual club football competition, featuring 36 European clubs. An estimated one in three people worldwide watches the tournament. With matches held in major European markets every week, the partnership also offers consistent exposure to local consumers. Guy-Laurent Epstein, co-CEO of UC3, UEFA's operating entity, said he was pleased to welcome Hyundai Motor as an official UEFA Champions League partner. "Hyundai Motor has a long history of supporting top-level football and a firm belief in the power of the sport to bring people together," he said. The vehicle Hyundai Motor is leading with under the new partnership is the Ioniq 3, a compact electric hatchback designed and developed in Europe for European consumers. The car made its public debut at Milan Design Week earlier this year and entered production last month at the company's factory in Izmit, Turkey. It is the first battery-electric vehicle built at that plant and the first of five new models Hyundai Motor plans to launch in Europe from this year through next year. The automaker intends to use the Champions League as a marketing platform to continuously promote the Ioniq 3 and the other new models. The Ioniq 3 offers a maximum range of 497 kilometers on a single charge under the European WLTP standard. The interior features a 14.6-inch display running Hyundai Motor Group's next-generation infotainment system, Pleos Connect. Xavier Martinet, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, said the Ioniq 3 is the first of five new models the company is introducing in Europe this season and was designed and developed for customers in the region. "It is the vehicle that will lead Hyundai Motor's future lineup," he said. The Champions League sponsorship also reflects Hyundai Motor's strategy to grow electric vehicle sales in Europe. The company conducts design and research and development for its European lineup in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and operates production bases in the Czech Republic and Turkey. It also maintains a sales and service network of more than 2,000 outlets across 42 European markets. Electrified vehicles accounted for 24 percent of Hyundai Motor's European sales last year. About 80 percent of models currently sold in Europe are available with an electric or hybrid powertrain, and the company plans to offer an electrified option across its entire European lineup by next year. Hyundai Motor President and CEO Jose Munoz said football has been part of the company for 30 years. "It is a sport with the power to bring people together across languages, borders and generations," he said. "Following the World Cup this summer, the UEFA Champions League is an ideal platform to showcase Hyundai Motor vehicles with the design and features that fans will love."

Sept. 8, 2026

Rakhmonov reveals he fought Garry with serious knee injury: 'That's the Kazakh way'

'If it were Khabib or Makhachev, they would have refused' — unbeaten welterweight's comments draw attention ahead of title push Shavkat Rakhmonov, the unbeaten welterweight from Kazakhstan who has been sidelined by a knee injury, has revealed that he fought Ian Machado Garry while carrying a serious knee problem — and that he knew the risks when he chose to compete. In a recent interview with ALF Global, Rakhmonov said the injury had cost him a title shot and that he had been forced to manage the problem throughout. "Honestly, I should not have fought Ian Garry at all. I should not have competed with that kind of injury. I just took the risk," he said, hinting at some regret over the decision. He also revealed that he had been out for a year before the Garry fight and entered because he simply wanted to compete. "There were already problems with my body before that, and there were only two weeks left until the Garry fight," he said. Rakhmonov has not competed since his unanimous decision win over Garry in December 2024. He had originally been set to challenge UFC champion Belal Muhammad, but Muhammad was unable to fight. Despite his knee problems, Rakhmonov stayed on the card and faced Garry in a No. 1 contender bout. Injuries have continued to follow him since. Sean Brady recently expressed concern that Rakhmonov's slow recovery could make it difficult for him to continue his career. Rakhmonov has suffered significant damage to his ACL and meniscus, and has said he competed without a functioning ligament. His last fight before the Garry bout was against Stephen Thompson in December 2023. Skipping the Garry fight would have left him on the sidelines for far too long, which appears to have driven the decision to push through. Still, Rakhmonov took a pointed swipe at fighters from Dagestan. "That's the Kazakh way. We don't fear anything," he said. "If it were another Dagestani fighter like Khabib or Islam Makhachev, they definitely would have refused." The remark carried a clear implication that Dagestani fighters are overly cautious about protecting their bodies. The welterweight division is currently anchored by Makhachev, who cemented his title reign with a decision win over Ian Garry. Rakhmonov signaled his confidence in breaking back into contention. "Time will tell. I will do my best to come back and win the title," he said.

Sept. 7, 2026

Park Bo-hyun set for RTU Season 5 final clash with China's Meng Bo

Relentless and hard-charging, Park Bo-hyun eyes history as South Korea's fourth female UFC fighter The final matchups for Road to UFC (RTU) Season 5 — where a UFC contract is on the line — have been set. South Korea's "Rush" Park Bo-hyun (27) will face Meng Bo (30, China) for a spot in the UFC. The UFC held the RTU Season 5 semifinal event "Road to UFC Season 5 Semifinals: Makhsatsher vs. Flowers" at the Oriental Sports Center in Shanghai, China, on Aug. 28 (Korean Standard Time). RTU is a tournament that gives Asia-Pacific prospects a path to the UFC. The eight finalists across four weight classes determined that day will compete in the finals at a future UFC Fight Night event. In the women's strawweight division (52.2 kg), Park Bo-hyun (10 wins, 3 losses) was the first to advance to the final. Park opened the card with a unanimous decision victory (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) over Farida Abduyeva (22, Kyrgyzstan). She opened a cut on Abduyeva's forehead with a powerful elbow and scored a knockdown with a left hook, cruising to a dominant win. Overseas bookmakers had given Park roughly a 20 percent chance of winning before the fight, but she defied expectations again to reach the final. From the opposite side of the bracket came China's Meng Bo (24 wins, 8 losses). A veteran who turned professional in 2013, Meng notably defeated former UFC strawweight champion Zhang Weili in both fighters' professional debuts. In the semifinal, she edged out Fukuda Machi (23, Japan) in a hard-fought grappling battle, winning by split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28) to advance. After Meng's bout, the two finalists faced off at the center of the octagon. The fighters bumped fists and embraced before playfully pressing their foreheads together in a spirited staredown. Both told each other to "watch out" and pledged to put on a good showing. Should Park win, she would become South Korea's fourth female UFC fighter in nearly a decade, following Ham Seo-hee, Kim Ji-yeon and Jeon Chan-mi. She would also become the 26th South Korean UFC fighter overall, roughly two years after Yoo Ju-sang. Within RTU, she would be the sixth South Korean champion — and the first in a women's division — following Park Hyun-sung (Season 1 flyweight), Lee Jung-young (Season 1 featherweight), Lee Chang-ho (Season 2 bantamweight), Choi Dong-hoon (Season 3 flyweight) and Yoo Su-young (Season 3 bantamweight). In the flyweight division (56.7 kg), Zhi Niusuye (25, China) will meet Suzuki Takaya (22, Japan) in the final. The bantamweight (61.2 kg) final will pit Rabindra Dant (27, Nepal) against Tajima Ryo (27, Japan). In the featherweight (65.8 kg) final, George Mangos (23, Australia) will take on Chagnaadorj Dagiisuuren (26, Mongolia). Kevin Chang, UFC executive vice president and general manager for Asia, said the tournament had exceeded expectations across the board — from the fighters' performances to broadcast numbers, social media engagement and press coverage. "RTU has now established itself as a cornerstone of the UFC ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific region," he said. "We can't wait to watch the finals featuring the fighters who have delivered such thrilling action, and to welcome four new fighters into the UFC." To date, 22 fighters have reached the UFC through RTU, meaningfully increasing the organization's Asia-Pacific representation. RTU alumni have collectively earned 12 Performance of the Night bonuses in the UFC.

Sept. 7, 2026

Cho Myung-woo wins Liège World Cup, becomes Asia's all-time leader with 6 titles

Three World Cup wins this year — first time in 18 years 'Artist Cho' ushers in a new golden era World No. 1 Cho Myung-woo of South Korea's national team has claimed the top spot on the world stage once again. Cho won the 2026 Liège Three-Cushion Billiards World Cup, held in Liège, Belgium, from Aug. 31 to Sept. 6 (local time), capturing his sixth career World Cup title. His opponent in the final was Dick Jaspers of the Netherlands (world No. 8), the same player Cho had defeated in the Ankara World Cup final in June. Jaspers jumped out to an early lead, posting a high run of 11 in the 11th inning to go ahead 30-21, but Cho responded with a high run of 11 in the 14th inning to overturn the score at 37-34. He added 7 points in the 15th inning to extend his lead to 44-34, then completed 50 points in the 18th inning to close out the match 50-38. His final average was 2.777. In the semifinals, Cho defeated Bao Phuong Vinh of Vietnam (world No. 11), posting a high run of 21 and an average of 3.333 to win 50-30 in just 15 innings. The victory marked the second time in three months that Cho had beaten Jaspers in a World Cup final, following his win at the Ankara World Cup. After losing to Jaspers in the 2024 Porto World Cup final, Cho won 50-49 in Ankara earlier this year and followed that up with another victory in Liège, reversing their head-to-head record. With six career World Cup titles, Cho set a new all-time record for the most wins by an Asian player. He had tied the late Lee Sang-cheon's mark of five at the Ankara World Cup, and this latest triumph gave him sole possession of the record. He also surpassed Marco Zanetti of Italy (five titles) to move into eighth place on the all-time World Cup wins list. Cho has now won three World Cups this year — in Bogotá, Ankara and Liège — making him the first player to win three or more World Cups in a single year since Dick Jaspers did so in 2008. Ranked No. 1 in the world, Cho has been a cornerstone of the South Korean national team and has consistently delivered strong results on the international stage this year. Known as "Artist Cho" for his frequent use of unconventional solutions on the table, Cho's next target is the world championship. He is set to compete at the 78th Three-Cushion Billiards World Championship, to be held in Blois, France, from Sept. 23 to Sept. 27, having reached the podium in three consecutive years, including a title in 2024. Meanwhile, Cho is scheduled to return home after the Liège World Cup, arriving at Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport at 11:20 a.m. Tuesday (Korean Standard Time). A welcome ceremony will be held at the airport.

Sept. 7, 2026

Gaethje-Topuria rematch emerges as top contender for next title fight

Anik: Topuria is the leading challenger 'No promoter would pass up a big match like that' The prospect of a rematch between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje is rapidly gaining momentum. In their first meeting at the UFC White House event in June, Topuria lost his lightweight title to Gaethje by TKO at the end of the fourth round. Topuria, who suffered a facial fracture in the fight, has only recently resumed public activity after recovering from the defeat. Given the competitive state of the lightweight division, the conventional path back to a title shot would require Topuria to fight one or two more bouts first. But an insider familiar with UFC discussions suggested the rematch could happen sooner than that. UFC commentator Jon Anik said on his YouTube channel Anik Brothers that internal discussions appear to be underway about pursuing a second fight between Gaethje and Topuria. "A lot of people are wondering who Topuria fights next," Anik said. "What promoter wouldn't want to put Topuria — who headlined a massive event like the UFC White House card — right back into a title fight?" The biggest variable Anik identified is whether Gaethje will retire. The newly crowned lightweight champion has said he does not plan to fight again this year and intends to return sometime next year. Those around him, however, have not ruled out the possibility that the 38-year-old could walk away from the sport without fighting again. Anik said that if Gaethje chooses to fight rather than retire as champion, Topuria is currently the leading candidate to be his first title defense opponent. "I think Justin is far more interested in his paycheck than in who he actually fights," Anik said, adding that a Gaethje-Topuria rematch "would be an enormous fight." If Gaethje instead announces his retirement next year, the rematch scenario would fall apart on its own. The winner of the bout between Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on Sept. 20 (Korean Standard Time) would almost certainly earn the next title shot. Anik projected that the other contender slot could then be decided by the matchup between Paddy Pimblett and Charles Oliveira.

Sept. 7, 2026

Korean Sport & Olympic Committee completes sports club integrated information system

The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee announced Monday that it has completed a "Sports Club Integrated Information System" and upgraded its dedicated sports club platform for commercial use, following roughly 10 months of development from October 2025 through August this year. The system encompasses a sports club integrated portal, individual homepages for registered and designated sports clubs, a club management system, an administrative support system, a competition management system, and a mobile application for the sports club portal. "We plan to hold two additional hands-on training sessions before the end of the year to keep the sports club portal active," committee President Yu Seung-min said. "We ask for your continued attention and use of the sports club portal so that it can establish itself as the central hub of a new era of public sports activity." Meanwhile, the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee is holding a membership sign-up event to mark the portal's relaunch, running through Sunday. Anyone can visit the sports club portal, sign up for membership and complete login verification — submitting a screenshot as proof — for a chance to win a 10,000 won ($7) Shinsegae gift certificate. Thirty winners will be selected by draw.

Sept. 7, 2026

Culture ministry nearly triples budget for public sports facility upgrades

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said Monday it has drawn up a budget proposal for its 2027 public sports facility renovation support project totaling 255.8 billion won ($187.9 million) — a 168.4 percent increase, or 160.5 billion won more, from this year's 95.3 billion won. The budget expansion comes as roughly 70 percent of the country's 10,753 public sports facilities — excluding simple outdoor installations — are more than 10 years old, and demand for renovation work has surged from 381 cases in 2023 to 484 in 2025, the ministry said. The ministry has set three core priorities for the renovation program: strengthening safety, responding to climate change, and improving user convenience and facility utilization. The national subsidy rate for sports facilities requiring urgent renovation will be raised from 50 percent to 70 percent. World Cup stadiums across the country are also set to be repurposed as multipurpose cultural and sports hubs, accommodating recreational and competitive sports as well as large-scale performances beyond their traditional use for soccer matches. Applications for the 2027 project will be accepted from September through October, with a selection committee reviewing submissions before final recipients are announced around December. "We have boldly expanded investment in public sports facilities with the view that public health is national competitiveness," Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young said. "We will strengthen the government's role in ensuring all citizens can maintain their health through exercise in safe and comfortable environments, and we will push forward related projects at pace so that people can feel the change."

Sept. 7, 2026

KLPGA signs deal for Iceberg Golf·Seoul Shinmun Open

The Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association announced Monday that it held a signing ceremony at its headquarters in Gangdong-gu, Seoul, to formalize the Iceberg Golf·Seoul Shinmun Open. The tournament, co-hosted by Seoul Shinmun and Iceberg Golf and organized by the KLPGA, will be held as part of the 2026 KLPGA Tour season. It will carry a purse of 1.5 billion won ($1.11 million) — the largest of any event on the tour this season — and will be played over three days beginning Oct. 16 at H1 Club in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province. Iceberg Golf CEO Yu Yong-moon, who attended the ceremony, said he was honored to share a meaningful journey with Seoul Shinmun, with its long history and tradition, and the KLPGA. "We will do our utmost to create a stage where players can showcase their full abilities," he said. KLPGA Chairman Kim Sang-yeol said it was significant that such a strong tournament would be held in October, when competition for key titles reaches its peak. "We will provide full support so that the event becomes a festival where players deliver unforgettable performances in fierce ranking battles and connect with fans," he said. Iceberg Golf is a golf apparel brand launched in South Korea in 2024, bringing the sensibility of Iceberg — an Italian fashion brand founded in 1974 — to the fairway.

Sept. 7, 2026

SAP Korea extends sponsorship deal with LPGA golfer Jeon In-ji

SAP Korea has extended its official sponsorship agreement with LPGA golfer Jeon In-ji through next year. SAP Korea said Monday that the renewal ceremony was held Saturday at Asiana Country Club during a VIP customer golf event. The extension builds on a partnership that began in 2017. "SAP's steady support and trust over the past 10 years allowed me to focus even more on the tour," Jeon said. "Having walked this road together for so long, I will repay SAP and my fans with strong performances and consistent play going forward." What began as a sponsorship has grown over roughly a decade into a long-term partnership built on mutual support. Jeon has remained competitive this season, contending at major championships and recording multiple daily-best scores across various tournaments. SAP maintains a broad portfolio of sports partnerships worldwide. The company is an official partner of the Formula 1 Mercedes-AMG Petronas team and holds a long-term partnership with German football club FC Bayern Munich. Through these relationships, SAP supports teams and athletes in achieving peak performance through technology innovation.

Sept. 7, 2026

Korea Racing Authority to hold online-only Thursday races on Sept. 10, 17

The Korea Racing Authority announced Monday it will hold online-only Thursday racing events on Sept. 10 and Sept. 17. Both days will feature eight Jeju races, with eight rounds run each day. The Thursday racing events will be conducted exclusively online — all Korea Racing Authority tracks and branch offices nationwide will keep their customer areas closed, and tickets may be purchased only through the mobile app Derby On. On each race day, ticket sales on the Derby On app will open at 9:30 a.m., with the first race starting at 1 p.m. and the last at 4:30 p.m. Promotional events will also be held to mark the Thursday races. Customers who complete a new in-person identity verification on the Derby On app, as well as those who use Derby On on either race day, will be eligible for events including betting mileage rewards.

Sept. 7, 2026

SAP Korea extends sponsorship of LPGA golfer Jeon In-ji through end of 2027

SAP Korea announced Monday that it has extended its official sponsorship agreement with professional golfer Jeon In-ji through Dec. 31, 2027. The signing ceremony took place Saturday at Asiana Country Club during a VIP customer golf event attended by Jeon and key customers. The sponsorship, which began in 2017, has grown into a long-term partnership built on mutual support. Both sides said they plan to continue deepening their collaboration through sports, sustaining a partnership in which the company and the athlete grow together. "The partnership we have built with Jeon In-ji over the past decade has been a meaningful journey of growth grounded in mutual trust," SAP Korea President Shin Eun-young said. "With this extension, we look forward to continuing our unwavering support as she consistently pursues her goals, and we hope this partnership will serve as an opportunity to share with customers around the world the value of a company and an athlete growing together." Jeon said SAP's steadfast support and belief in her over the past 10 years had allowed her to focus more fully on tour competition. "Having been together for so long, I will repay SAP and my fans with strong performances and a consistent presence on tour," she added. Meanwhile, SAP maintains a range of partnerships across global sports. The company is an official partner of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team and has a long-term partnership with German football club FC Bayern Munich, working together on the club's digital transformation through cloud migration.

Sept. 7, 2026

Mizuno Golf offers free custom fitting service for one month

Korea Mizuno will hold a free custom fitting service event at its Mizuno Performance Center Seoul in Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, from Monday through Oct. 7. During the event, golfers can receive complimentary iron and driver custom fitting and swing analysis from professional fitters. Anyone looking to check whether their current clubs suit them, or seeking the right head and shaft combination ahead of a club upgrade, can participate by making a reservation in advance. Mizuno's proprietary Shaft Optimizer 3D measures a range of data generated during the swing to analyze a golfer's "swing DNA," using the results to identify the optimal shaft and lie angle. The system evaluates each shaft's individual characteristics independently rather than relying solely on the labeled flex or brand. The Mizuno Performance Center Seoul also uses a foot weight balance measurement system and a premium InBody system to examine not only the swing but also physical condition, weight transfer and footwork. This allows fitters to assess a golfer's swing mechanics and ball-flight tendencies, and to fine-tune club settings such as weight, shaft stiffness, loft and shaft length. "Finding the right setup to match a golfer's swing characteristics and physical condition is essential to getting the most out of a club's performance," a Mizuno Golf official said. "We hope golfers who have wondered whether their clubs are truly suited to them will use this free fitting service to experience, through data and expert analysis, what the right club feels like."

Sept. 7, 2026

PBA Team League Round 3 to be held in Pohang this week

The Professional Billiards Association Team League Round 3 will be held in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, on Thursday. The PBA announced that the "Welcome Savings Bank PBA Team League Pohang City Tour 2026-2027" will run from Thursday through Sept. 18 at the indoor gymnasium of Pohang General Sports Park. The PBA has been staging this season's team league in partnership with local governments. Round 1 was held in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, in July, and Round 2 took place in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, in August. Round 3 will determine the third team to advance to the postseason. Woori Financial Capital claimed the first postseason berth by winning Round 1, while Huons secured its spot — for the first time since the team's founding — by going undefeated through Round 2. Huons, which swept Round 2 without a loss, will also be chasing the all-time PBA Team League consecutive-win record. The current record of 14 straight wins was set by NH NongHyup Card during the 2023-24 season. Established powerhouses Hana Card, Welcome Savings Bank and NH NongHyup Card are all looking to bounce back in Round 3. Hana Card, the only team to have won the team league title twice, finished fifth in Round 2 with a 4-5 record and 14 points. Welcome Savings Bank finished eighth with a 3-6 record and 12 points, and NH NongHyup Card placed ninth with a 3-6 record and 11 points; both will be pushing to climb out of the lower tier.

Sept. 7, 2026

Callaway Apparel unveils 26FW styles for Chuseok season

Callaway Apparel released its 26FW season style content Monday through its official website and social media channels, showcasing looks inspired by the Chuseok holiday spirit. The 26FW collection pairs a Korean autumnal mood with fall golf looks timed to the Chuseok holiday and the start of the peak autumn golf season. Round-neck knits, hats and bags feature the warm tones and textures of fall, offering styles that move easily between the course and everyday wear. Women's round-neck knits are available in light blue, yellow and black, while men's versions come in red, khaki and black — each adding a fresh accent to understated outfits. Both use a soft rayon-blend yarn cut to a weight optimized for transitional weather. The Callaway original classic logo on the front makes them versatile enough for a round of golf or daily wear. Meanwhile, Callaway's official online store is running a "Callaway Fall in Golf Week" promotion through Sept. 30. Customers who spend 100,000 won ($74) or more during the promotion period will receive a 10,000-won discount voucher and be automatically entered into a prize draw. Prizes — an Apex Ai200 Black Iron, an Ai-Dual S2S No. 7 putter, a women's cart bag, a card wallet and a tour pro signed cap — will be awarded to 38 winners selected in a draw on Oct. 16.

Sept. 7, 2026

Wavve introduces field cam, live chat for online golf fans

Streaming platform Wavve is launching a close-up "field cam" service for KLPGA coverage, fronted by singer Soyou — who has taken on the role of on-course MC — alongside former professional golfers Ahn Shin-ae and Park Won. The field cam will operate during the final rounds of major KLPGA tournaments, tracking a single "Wavve pick" player throughout the round. The format is designed to capture moments rarely seen in conventional broadcasts — gallery reactions, pre- and post-round sketches, and candid on-course footage — offering viewers a different perspective on the game. Soyou, known for her athleticism and power as well as her golf skills, will serve as the main MC, with Ahn and Park rotating as analysts across different tournaments to give viewers the feel of following a player alongside the stars. The field cam will roll out sequentially during the final rounds of major KLPGA events from September through November. "The goal of the field cam is to bring viewers closer to the players and the atmosphere on the course in ways that regular TV broadcasts cannot," a Wavve official said. "We are continuously upgrading our golf broadcast service so that viewers can enjoy the game more intimately and together." Wavve is also introducing a live chat function and a multiview feature for its golf broadcasts. The chat function lets online viewers share reactions and cheer together in real time during live coverage. Through multiview, subscribers can watch up to three channels simultaneously — KLPGA, KPGA and the field cam — with TV viewers limited to two channels at once.

Sept. 7, 2026