PERSONAL
Interest in golf grew after one of his high school teachers recommended he try the sport. Began studying Jack Nicklaus lesson books and videos and spent long hours hitting practice balls on his island home's only practice range. Later studied under Phil Ritson.
Currently coached by Steve Bann. First Korean to earn PGA TOUR card.
Grew up the son of a farmer/fisherman and as a teenage powerlifter earned the nickname "Tank" because he could squat 350 pounds although he weighed a mere 95. He didn't have the upper-body strength to pursue that sport, so he turned to golf at age 16.
After his 2005 victory, donated $90,000 to the Korean Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, NC, that he has attended each year he played the tournament.