Yujun Jung stunned the field with a bogey-free six-under-par 65 to lead the opening round of the 2025 Kolon Korea Open at La Vie Est Belle golf club. The 22-year-old Korean qualifier, who advanced through a 36-hole pre-qualifier earlier this month, made six birdies to grab a two-shot advantage over Phachara Khongwatmai of Thailand and Australia’s Jed Morgan.

Despite the tournament’s punishing US Open-style layout stretching 7,423 yards, Jung looked unfazed and showcased composure beyond his experience on the Korean PGA Tour. “The course was harder than in qualifying, but my tee shots and putting were strong,” said Jung, who began on the 10th and picked up birdies on 13, 17, one, five and six.

Phachara and Morgan in Hot Pursuit
Phachara, searching for his elusive second Asian Tour title after 10 runner-up finishes, impressed with a 67 that included five birdies and a single bogey. “I didn’t expect to play this well after time off with minor injuries, but my game is returning,” he said. Morgan matched the Thai with his own 67 to stay in contention.

Six players, including Korea’s amateur standout Minsu Kim and Thailand’s Denwit Boriboonsub, trail by three at 68. Among those a further shot back are Sadom Kaewkanjana and Poom Saksansin of Thailand, and Korea’s Giwhan Kim and Jinho Choi. Defending champion Minkyu Kim struggled, slumping to an unexpected 81.

La Vie Est Belle is hosting the Korea Open for the first time due to renovations at Woo Jeong Hills Country Club, the tournament’s long-time venue.