About her husband, Jun Chung, Lydia Ko once remarked, “He’s been my biggest supporter, even when I’m my own worst critic.” Jun has responded by calling Lydia “the most grounded superstar I’ve ever met.” As compelling as Ko’s quick ascent in the golf world is, their love story is too.

Ko is an example of excellence. She became the youngest player to be ranked No. 1 in the world when she turned professional at the age of 16, having been born in Seoul and raised in New Zealand. She has won three major titles and is expected to win an Olympic gold medal in 2024. However, in addition to her remarkable career, Lydia’s personal life—particularly her relationship with Jun Chung—has garnered public attention. Let’s know more about her husband.

Who is Jun Chung? The billionaire husband of Lydia Ko

The youngest child, Jun Chung, also called Chung Jun, is the son of Chung Tae-young, the CEO and vice chairman of Hyundai Card, a significant financial division of the Hyundai corporation. Born into one of the most powerful business families in South Korea, Jun grew up surrounded by financial strategy meetings and corporate boardrooms. His decision to further his education at Claremont McKenna College in California and acquire a bachelor’s degree in philosophy is indicative of his analytical nature and wide range of interests outside of the family company.

Jun has established himself as a professional in the Hyundai conglomerate. He was employed by Hyundai Cradle, the innovation and venture capital division of the Hyundai Motor Group, as an Open Innovation Associate. In this capacity, he works on finding and developing innovative business models and technologies, particularly in the fields of finance and mobility. His job entails working with tech companies and startups to advance Hyundai’s forward-thinking projects.

Even though he works for a corporation, Jun is a strong advocate for Lydia’s golf career. He frequently attends competitions with her to offer emotional support and celebrate her wins. With one supporting the other’s goals, their union is a perfect example of striking a balance between personal and professional life. From their shared heritage to their unique proposal, Lydia and Jun’s bond is rooted in love, respect, and a shared passion for golf.

A love story teed up on the greens

A blind date set up by mutual friends marked the beginning of Lydia Ko and Jun Chung’s romance in October 2020. A growing bond developed from their shared South Korean ancestry and love of golf, which provided a common ground. Having already become a passionate golfer, Jun discovered in Lydia not just a companion but also a kindred soul who shared his love of the game.

Their friendship grew stronger as they supported one another in their professional endeavours and enjoyed playing golf together. When Lydia proposed to Jun during an engagement photo shoot, she gave him golf balls with the words “Will you marry me?” written on them. This was a sweet twist that brought their love story and passion together.

On December 30, 2022, the pair tied the knot at Seoul, South Korea’s Myeongdong Cathedral. The wedding was attended by family, friends, and some of Lydia’s fellow LPGA players. It was the union of two people from well-known but different worlds. Their union represents a successful fusion of business and sports, as well as personal and professional aspects, blending modernity and tradition. The story of Lydia Ko and Jun Chung is not merely about a well-known athlete and a successful businessman joining forces; it is also about cooperation, mutual respect, and combining their lives in a way that benefits and encourages both parties.