Seoul, Korea: Lee Jong-myung has outlined his ambitious plans after becoming the first elected President of the Korea Golf Association (KGA).

Lee succeeds Hur Kwang-soo, who retired at the KGA’s annual general meeting this week, held in the Grand Ballroom at the Plaza Hotel. Hur had acted as President for nine years.

Lee, who becomes the 19th President in the 56-year history of the KGA, is the first to gain office through an election. He has been involved with Korea’s national ruling golfing body for the past 15 years.

Lee was first appointed as a member of the KGA’s Board of Directors in 2005. After serving two years in that post, he was elected Vice-President in 2007, a role he has held for 13 years.

During his four-year spell in office, Lee said he is committed to expanding golf’s reach in the country by making the game more affordable and accessible to more people.

He also revealed his plans for the creation of a national training centre, comprising an 18-hole course, driving range and golf museum.

Furthermore, in order to promote a mood of reconciliation with North Korea, Lee said he would investigate the possibility of bringing the World Amateur Team Championships (Eisenhower Trophy and Espirito Santo Trophy) to Ananti Golf Club in Mount Geumgang, north of the border.

Lee said: “Korea golf is growing so fast that the world is envious of it, and our players are making great strides on the world stage. 

“I would like to express my respect and appreciation to the former Presidents (of the KGA) who have led the Association for such advancement of Korean golf. I am very happy personally because I was elected through the first contest. At the same time, I feel a heavy responsibility.”