LIV Golf's Korean GC star Younghan Song picked up right where he left off at Caledonian Golf Club, returning to one of his most successful stops on The International Series calendar with a strong opening statement.
The Korean, who finished runner-up at International Series Japan last year, opened his campaign at this year's event with a six-under-par 65 to sit tied for second alongside Thailand's Poom Saksansin, just one shot behind leader Hongtaek Kim.
Back at a venue that clearly suits his eye, Song is drawing confidence from familiar territory as he looks to replicate, and potentially surpass, last year's breakthrough performance.
"I wasn't playing particularly well coming in, but we had good weather today, which helped," said Song. "I also have good memories on this course, so I just tried to focus on each shot and that allowed me to play well."
"It would be great to match last year's result, and hopefully push for something even better."
Song's 2025 campaign in Japan was one of consistency and composure, highlighted by rounds of 65-67-68-69 to secure a tied second finish, just five shots behind eventual champion Lucas Herbert. A memorable ace on the fifth hole, struck with a 9-iron from 159 yards, added further gloss to an already standout week.
While his putting was a defining strength in that performance, Song acknowledges that his game has evolved over the past year.
"Last year, my putting was very strong, I ranked first in putting, but this year it hasn't been as good," he said. "On the other hand, my ball-striking has improved, so it's a bit different compared to last year."
Now competing on LIV Golf as part of Korean GC, Song continues to build momentum in a new environment, with a strong showing at LIV Golf South Africa a few weeks ago underlining his progress.
"I'm really enjoying it," he said. "It's a new environment and everything feels different. The level of competition is very high, with many top-ranked players, so it's been a great learning experience."
As one of the players who has successfully made the step onto LIV Golf, Song also recognises the importance of The International Series as a pathway for emerging talent.
"Just focus on playing solid golf and trust that the opportunities will come," he said. "LIV Golf is a great League and an amazing experience, so I'd encourage players to keep working hard and do their best on The International Series to get there."
