Thailand’s Poom Saksansin proved that power isn’t the only path to victory as he surged to the third-round lead at the 2025 Kolon Korea Open. Competing on one of the season’s longest and most demanding courses, the short-hitting four-time Asian Tour winner leaned on a masterclass in putting to card a two-under-par 69 and seize the outright lead at seven under.

Despite averaging just 250.67 yards off the tee—the lowest among players who made the cut—Poom thrived with a composed and clinical performance. He sank crucial par putts from 12 feet on the 15th and 16th, and saved par from a green-side bunker on the 18th, showcasing the poise and touch that have defined his career.

Sadom Kaewkanjana Close Behind

Fellow Thai Sadom Kaewkanjana matched Poom’s 69 to sit one shot back, heading into a high-stakes final day where a spot in The Open is also on the line. Sadom, who last won at the 2020 SMBC Singapore Open, praised Poom’s short game and looks forward to another exciting round alongside him.

Korea’s Songgyu Yoo, the overnight leader, dropped to solo third after a costly triple bogey on the par-five 16th derailed his round. Despite leading for most of the day, his aggressive second shot landed in the hazard, leaving him two strokes off the lead.

Yunseok Kang climbed to fourth after a 68, while Giwhan Kim sits fifth following a round of 72. Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent is among a six-man group tied six shots behind Poom, keeping slim hopes alive for a late charge.