Professional golfer
Jin Young Ko
Jin Young Ko is a South Korean LPGA star known for precise iron play, elite ball-striking and remarkable consistency. She has won 15 LPGA Tour events, including two majors, and has been world No. 1 for more than three years. Her 2019 season remains one of the finest in modern women’s golf.
Ask HH about Jin Young Ko
AT A GLANCE
Quick facts
- Born
- July 7, 1995Seoul, South Korea
- Turned professional
- 2013
- LPGA Tour wins
- 15
- Major wins
- 22019 Chevron Championship and Amundi Evian Championship
- LPGA membership
- 2018
- Highest ranking
- World No. 1Held the top position for more than 150 weeks
THE STORY
What to know
CAREER SNAPSHOT
A decorated champion
Ko has 15 LPGA Tour victories, two major championships and major wins at both the Chevron Championship and Amundi Evian Championship.
BACKGROUND
From Seoul to the world stage
Born July 7, 1995, in Seoul, South Korea, Ko turned professional in 2013 and quickly became a leading player on the KLPGA Tour before moving to the LPGA.
BREAKTHROUGH
An immediate LPGA impact
Ko won the 2018 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open in her first LPGA season and earned Rookie of the Year honors.
2019 SEASON
Her defining year
In 2019, Ko won the ANA Inspiration and Evian Championship, captured LPGA Player of the Year, the Vare Trophy and the Rolex ANNIKA Major Award, and reached world No. 1.
PLAYING STYLE
Precision over power
Ko’s game is built around repeatable ball-striking, excellent distance control, disciplined course management and a calm, technically efficient swing.
LEGACY
A historic world No. 1
Ko held the Rolex Women’s World Golf Ranking’s top position for more than 150 weeks, surpassing Lorena Ochoa’s previous record for consecutive career time at No. 1.
CAREER & GOLF JOURNEY
Notable moments
Turns professional
Begins her professional career at age 18.
KLPGA success
Builds a major resume in South Korea, including numerous KLPGA victories.
LPGA move confirmed
Wins the LPGA KEB Hana Bank Championship and commits to the LPGA Tour.
Rookie breakthrough
Wins the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open and is named LPGA Rookie of the Year.
Two major championships
Wins the Chevron Championship and Amundi Evian Championship while becoming world No. 1.
Another Player of the Year season
Wins five LPGA events and earns her second LPGA Player of the Year award.
RECENT FORM
Recent results and activity
| Event | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Kroger Queen City Championship | Top-five finish reported | 2026-05-17 |
HH take
Why this profile is worth exploring
If you want to study one player for control and consistency, Ko is an excellent choice: watch her iron shots, tempo and decision-making rather than just her swing speed.