South Korean golfer Tom Kim secured a gold medal at the Asian Games, a victory that also grants him an exemption from the country’s mandatory military service. The 24-year-old finished the tournament with an 18-under-par total, including a six-under 64 in the final round, edging out the competition by three strokes.

Kim’s triumph came in Nagoya, Japan, where the Asian Games are currently underway. The win not only represents a significant achievement in Kim’s professional career but also carries considerable personal importance given South Korea’s military service obligations. South Korean men aged 18 to 28 are generally required to serve approximately 18 months in the armed forces. However, exemptions are granted to athletes who secure gold medals in the Asian Games or any medal at the Olympics before reaching the age limit.

This opportunity heightened the stakes for Kim, who had to adjust his schedule dramatically to compete. The week before, he played for the Internationals team at the Presidents Cup in Chicago. After winning his singles match against American Wyndham Clark, Kim left the event early as the U.S. team ultimately overcame the Internationals in the competition. He then endured a 17-hour flight crossing 14 time zones to arrive in Japan with sufficient time to prepare for the Asian Games.

Kim credited a brief message from golf legend Tiger Woods for helping him maintain focus in the final round. Woods advised him simply to "be you. Nothing more, nothing less," words that Kim said meant a lot during the critical moments.

The significance of Kim’s exemption is underscored by the experience of fellow South Korean golfer Sangmoon Bae. Bae served the required two years in the military in his early career, a hiatus that many analysts say led to his diminished presence on the PGA Tour.

Now ranked 32nd in the world with four PGA Tour victories, Kim is poised to continue his ascent in international golf without the interruption of military duties, a path made possible by his Asian Games success.