Golf might be played with the same set of clubs around the world, but its culture takes on unique colors depending on where you tee off. South Korea, the United States, and Japan each offer a fascinating lens into how golf is practiced, celebrated, and styled. Whether it’s a focus on elite training, a love for heritage, or a mix of casual and competitive energy, these countries showcase the many ways golf continues to evolve globally.
South Korea: A Fusion of Focus, Fashion, and Fierce Competition
South Korea has risen to become a global force in golf—especially in the women’s game. It’s not unusual to see multiple South Korean names atop LPGA leaderboards, and this dominance didn’t happen by accident. It comes from a culture that values discipline, focus, and consistency—traits deeply embedded in the country’s approach to both sports and education.
Young Korean golfers often start training early, sometimes with schedules that rival Olympic athletes. But it’s not all about competition. South Korea is also setting trends in golf fashion. The new generation of golfers isn’t just winning trophies—they're doing it in style.
Korean brands like WAAC, Beanpole Golf, and the fresh-faced Erthe Golf are transforming how golf apparel is perceived. Think bold cuts, high-performance fabrics, pastel tones, oversized collars, and on-course looks that can easily transition to a city café. It’s performance-driven and lifestyle-approved—exactly what today’s younger golfers are craving.
United States: Where Golf Meets Entertainment and Legacy
If South Korea is known for its precision, the U.S. is golf’s beating heart of spectacle and heritage. From legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods to events like The Masters and The U.S. Open, American golf is equal parts sport and storytelling.
Golf in the U.S. is often more accessible to newcomers. Many kids pick up clubs at public courses or junior golf clinics, and college scholarships provide a powerful pathway to the pro leagues. The PGA and LPGA Tours both maintain strong domestic fan bases and constantly evolve to meet changing tastes—think Topgolf, Netflix golf series, and viral tournament moments.
Style-wise, the U.S. reflects its love for comfort and versatility. Brands like TravisMathew, Nike Golf, and G/FORE offer fits that blend athletic performance with West Coast ease. While it once leaned traditional, American golf fashion is now borrowing cues from streetwear and athleisure, making it more inviting to younger demographics and new players.
Japan: Golf as a Refined Art Form
In Japan, golf is more than just a sport—it’s a deeply cultural experience. Traditional etiquette and respect still define much of how golf is played there, from removing hats when entering a clubhouse to bowing at the end of a round. But that doesn’t mean it’s stuck in the past.
Japan has long been a leader in golf club manufacturing, with brands like Honma, Mizuno, and Srixon gaining global respect for their craftsmanship. The Japanese approach to design blends precision with minimalism, which is reflected not just in clubs, but in apparel as well.
On the course, Japanese golfers prioritize flow and form, often favoring shorter, more curated rounds. In urban areas, where real estate is tight, high-tech indoor ranges and simulators offer city-dwellers the chance to keep their swings sharp.
In terms of golf apparel, Japanese brands like PEARLY GATES and BEAMS GOLF mix tech-forward performance with artistic flair. Clean lines, high-end materials, and a refined aesthetic set the tone—perfect for golfers who appreciate both function and fashion.
What Brings These Golf Worlds Together?
Despite their differences, Korea, the U.S., and Japan are united by their love of the game—and a shared evolution. Golf is no longer reserved for the elite or confined to tradition. It’s becoming younger, more expressive, and more connected through global media and trends.
Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok are also helping these cultures blend. Korean golfers are influencing fashion globally. Japanese gear is being used on American courses. And U.S. entertainment-style golf events are gaining fans in Asia. It's a cultural crossover—and golf is better for it.
Why It Matters to the Next Generation of Golfers
For today’s golfers—especially younger players and women—the sport is about more than scores. It’s about expression, community, and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to Korea’s sharp focus and fearless fashion, the U.S.'s laid-back energy and deep traditions, or Japan’s elegance and innovation, there’s a place for you in the game.
And brands like Erthe Golf are embracing that spirit—designing apparel and experiences that reflect where golf is going, not just where it’s been.
