St Andrews, Scotland: South Korean actor Song Joong-ki has been appointed as an R&A Global Golf Development Ambassador to make more people aware of the benefits of playing golf and inspire new audiences to take up the sport.

Song, 39, is an award-winning actor best known for his roles in Reborn Rich, Vincenzo and Descendants of the Sun. He is also a well-known fashion icon and an active sports lover.

Having amassed over 12 million followers on social media, Song will use these platforms to contribute to his role as an ambassador.

Song said: “Golf is a sport that anyone of all ages can enjoy. I have been impressed by The R&A’s vision and values, and I’m honoured to be able to encourage more people to experience golf and its benefits through this partnership.”

Additionally, Song has a strong interest in supporting young people, believing that the power of sport – particularly golf – can make a significant impact in their lives. Through his ambassadorship with The R&A, he hopes to encourage young aspiring golfers to give it a go.

Song will represent The R&A at the HSBC Women’s World Championship Business Forum in Singapore at the end of February where he will share his passion for the sport and his desire for golf to be more inclusive and accessible.

Golf in Korea continues to thrive with participation data released by The R&A last year demonstrating that in its affiliated markets (outside of the United States of America and Mexico) South Korea has the second highest rate of participation with 8.7 million on-course adult golfers.

The data from 2024 also shows that golf is rising in popularity among children, with 200,000 more young golfers compared to the year before. Golf also continues to be popular with women in South Korea – 45% of all registered golfers in the country are women, which is significantly higher than the 30% globally.

Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer at The R&A, said: “Golf globally has experienced a surge in participation with the Republic of Korea being one of the biggest markets in the world.

“Joong-ki is one of 8.7 million South Koreans who love playing golf and he is a wonderful advocate for the sport. We hope that through this ambassador role Joong-ki is able to help us to raise awareness of the benefits of playing golf and inspire his fans to pick up a golf club for the very first time.”

Song joins fellow actor Kathryn Newton, Major champion Michelle Wie West, football star Gareth Bale and music sensation Niall Horan as Global Golf Development Ambassadors appointed by The R&A to utilise the power of influence from the sports and entertainment industries to broaden golf’s appeal and image.