[OSEN=Reporter Yoo Soo-yeon] Song Ji-a (19), daughter of former national soccer player Song Jong-guk and actress Park Yeon-soo, has belatedly gained attention for obtaining full membership in the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA).
Recently, news that Song Ji-a passed the KLPGA full membership exam last year surfaced in an online community, creating a buzz. Netizens expressed amazement, stating, “That’s impressive,” and “In terms of odds, she’s one of only 1 in 2,500 promising athletes to make it to the professional stage.”
Song Ji-a’s mother, Park Yeon-soo, previously shared on social media, “She attended a talent agency until the 5th or 6th grade, and then decided she wanted to be a golfer in the 1st year of middle school, joining an academy.”
She expressed her feelings, saying, “It feels like just yesterday when she registered as a player and had her first match at Solago CC. I can’t believe she became a full member at the same place in six years.”
She added an emotional message to her daughter, saying, “She never stood out in terms of performance, but I want to leave behind the times of tears and worries. I want to show that even if you start late, you can succeed if you prepare well.”
To obtain KLPGA full membership, candidates must pass either a domestic selection test or fulfill special admission qualifications, then pass required education and assessments. Full members can participate in official tournaments, including the KLPGA Tour and Dream Tour, allowing them to embark on professional athletic activities.
Meanwhile, Song Ji-a gained recognition appearing on MBC’s variety show ‘Dad! Where Are We Going?’ as the child of Song Jong-guk and Park Yeon-soo. After her parents divorced in 2015, she lived with Park Yeon-soo and her brother Song Ji-wook. She once prepared for debuting in a girl group but later transitioned to a promising golfer, sharing her updates through ‘My Child’s Private Life.’
/yusuou@osen.co.kr
[Photo] TV Capture / SNS