Hunki Yun (pictured) has been named executive director of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and ASGCA Foundation. An award-winning journalist and a long-time staff member and administrator with the United States Golf Association (USGA), Yun will begin his new role Sept. 1, taking over for Chad Ritterbusch, who served in the role for 20 years.
Yun has had several roles at the USGA, helping to plan and execute the USGA’s mission to advance the game and improve everyday playing experiences. Prior to joining the USGA, he was a writer and editor for several publications, including the “Orlando Sentinel,” “Golf Digest,” “GOLF Magazine” and “LINKS Magazine.”
In various roles, Yun has worked with the industry on events such as the Golf Innovation Symposium, the USGA Experience at USGA championships and the Sustainability Showcase at the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show.
“It’s an honor to take the next step in my career and live up to the standards and example set by my good friend, Chad Ritterbusch,” said Yun. “I have always enjoyed my interactions with ASGCA members and look forward to working with these talented, hard-working men and women as they shape the landscape of golf and make the game more enjoyable and accessible for today’s players as well as the next generations of golfers.”
The decision was made by the ASGCA Board of Governors, following a detailed review of candidates by a search committee led by ASGCA Past President Brit Stenson.
“Hunki is uniquely qualified for this position, based on his industry background and the long-term connection he has to ASGCA and ASGCA members,” Stenson said. “And he is inquisitive. In every conversation he had with the committee, he asked great questions and really listened to what was said. Those qualities from his years as a journalist are still useful.”
“Relationships are a key part of everything we do as architects and as an association,” ASGCA President Mike Benkusky said. “ASGCA values the relationships with our industry partners and supporters, and Hunki knows them all. He has presented at the ASGCA Annual Meeting and so many industry events. He speaks the language of golf course architects and will serve us well.”
Yun becomes the third ASGCA executive director in its 77-year history, following Paul Fullmer, who served 1970-2004 and Ritterbusch, 2004-2024. Ritterbusch will remain involved as Executive Director Emeritus.
For more information about ASGCA, including a current list of members, visit http://www.asgca.org