Tom Kim has quickly become one of the brightest young stars in professional golf. Known for his energetic personality, clutch performances, and rapid rise on the PGA Tour, the South Korean golfer has already collected multiple PGA Tour victories before turning 25. Fans frequently search for questions such as Is Tom Kim American?, Who is Tom Kim’s wife?, How many PGA Tour wins does he have?, and Will he have to complete military service?
Here’s everything you need to know about Tom Kim in 2026.
Who is Tom Kim?
Tom Kim, whose birth name is Kim Joo-hyung, is a South Korean professional golfer born on June 21, 2002, in Seoul, South Korea. He turned professional in 2018 and quickly climbed through the Asian Tour before earning his PGA Tour card.
Despite being born in South Korea, Kim spent much of his childhood living in countries including China, Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines, making him fluent in several languages, including English, Korean, and Tagalog. His nickname “Tom” came from his childhood love of Thomas the Tank Engine.
Tom Kim PGA Tour Career
Tom Kim became one of the PGA Tour’s fastest-rising stars after winning the 2022 Wyndham Championship at just 20 years old. That victory made him the first PGA Tour winner born after the year 2000.
He followed it up with victories at:
- Wyndham Championship (2022)
- Shriners Children’s Open (2022)
- Shriners Children’s Open (2023)
As of the 2026 PGA Tour season, Tom Kim owns three PGA Tour victories and continues to compete regularly against the world’s best golfers.
Tom Kim PGA Wins
| Tournament | Year |
|---|---|
| Wyndham Championship | 2022 |
| Shriners Children’s Open | 2022 |
| Shriners Children’s Open | 2023 |
Winning three PGA Tour titles before turning 22 placed Kim among the youngest multiple-time winners in modern PGA Tour history.
Is Tom Kim American?
No.
Although Tom Kim has lived in several countries and maintains a residence in Dallas, Texas, he is not an American citizen. He represents South Korea in international golf competitions including the Olympics and team events.
Many fans assume he is American because:
- He speaks fluent English.
- He lives part-time in Texas.
- He primarily competes on the PGA Tour.
However, his nationality remains South Korean.
Who is Tom Kim’s Wife?
Tom Kim is not married as of 2026.
There is no public record of him having a wife or announcing an engagement. The 24-year-old golfer keeps his personal life private and has not publicly confirmed a girlfriend or long-term relationship.
Tom Kim Military Service
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Tom Kim’s career is South Korea’s mandatory military service.
South Korean men generally must complete military service unless they receive an exemption through achievements such as winning an Olympic medal or an Asian Games gold medal.
Tom Kim narrowly missed an opportunity to earn an exemption after finishing outside the medals at the Paris Olympics, making the subject a major talking point in golf.
He may still have future opportunities to qualify for an exemption through international competition before reaching the required service age.
Tom Kim Playing Style
Tom Kim is admired for:
- Outstanding iron play
- Excellent putting under pressure
- Aggressive shot-making
- High-energy celebrations
- Strong mental toughness
His emotional style has made him one of the PGA Tour’s most popular young players.
Tom Kim Career Highlights
- Turned professional in 2018
- First PGA Tour winner born after 2000
- Three-time PGA Tour champion
- Presidents Cup standout
- Multiple international victories before joining the PGA Tour
- Consistent top-ranked South Korean golfer on the PGA Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tom Kim American?
No. Tom Kim is a South Korean golfer, although he has lived in several countries and resides part-time in Texas.
How many PGA Tour wins does Tom Kim have?
Tom Kim has three PGA Tour victories as of the 2026 season.
Does Tom Kim have a wife?
No. Tom Kim is not married.
Why is Tom Kim’s military service discussed?
As a South Korean citizen, he is subject to mandatory military service unless he earns an exemption through qualifying international sporting achievements.
How old is Tom Kim?
Tom Kim was born on June 21, 2002, making him 24 years old in 2026.
Conclusion
Tom Kim has already established himself as one of golf’s brightest young talents. With three PGA Tour wins, worldwide recognition, and a fearless playing style, he remains a player capable of competing for major championships in the coming years. While questions about his nationality, relationship status, and military service continue to attract attention, his primary focus remains adding more trophies to an already impressive career.
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