YANG Jiho “I Trusted My Shots” — Yang Jiho Takes Another Confident Step Toward Korea Open Glory

[Yangpyeong=Kang Byeong-koo] Woo Jeong Hills Country Club demanded precision rather than power, and YANG Jiho proved to be the player most capable of providing the right answer.

During the second round of the 68th Kolon Korea Open Golf Championship, Yang carded a 4-under-par 67 to reach 10-under-par 132 for the tournament, maintaining sole possession of the lead. Following his opening-round 65, he remained at the top of the leaderboard for a second consecutive day.

What stood out most was not aggressive power golf, but disciplined course management. Yang demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges presented by Woo Jeong Hills, choosing accuracy over distance whenever possible. By limiting the use of his driver and focusing on finding fairways, he consistently created quality birdie opportunities throughout the round.

After the round, Yang reflected on his performance.

“Before the round started, I definitely felt the pressure and prestige of playing in the Korea Open,” he said. “But once I got through the first hole, my swing felt comfortable. I think trusting my shots and sticking to my game plan led to a good result.”

He also explained his strategy for tackling the demanding course.

“I didn’t use my driver very often. Playing from the fairway was much more comfortable than dealing with the rough,” Yang said.

Part of his strong performance this week has also come from a change in mindset. Yang revealed that preparing for fatherhood has helped him develop greater patience and composure both on and off the golf course.

“Waiting for our child has given me a stronger sense of responsibility,” he said with a smile. “I’m trying much harder to stay calm and maintain my composure than I did in the past.”

With the tournament now reaching its halfway point, Yang remains focused on the process rather than the result.

“Even when mistakes happen, I try to stay positive,” he said.

That steady approach has become one of the defining characteristics of his week so far, and it continues to carry him toward what could be the biggest victory of his professional career.