Let’s talk about golf in Vietnam

There has been a steady growth in Korean tourists to Vietnam in recent years. Statistically, the number of Korean visitors in the first 4 months of 2018 increased by 70% compared to 2017. This phenomenon is also found in the Korean expat community, resulting in new leisure services including golf. Let’s meet with Mr. Yum Chong Seob, General Manager of Rach Chiec driving range to discuss about the prosperity of golf industry in Vietnam.

Mr. Yum Chong Seob

Good morning Mr. Yum! Why did you choose to work in Vietnam?

Well, in my opinion, Vietnam is a great place to do business due to its favorable climate, rapid economic growth and sincere locals. There are not many countries like this at the moment.

What do you think of current Vietnam golf industry and the potential of golf development?

Vietnam’s economy is growing at a quick rate along with many tourism achievements. I expect a huge rise in tourists and expats coming to Vietnam to work and visit in the coming years. This will generate a higher demand in golf tourism, attract more golf investment and guarantee a more prospective future.

What are the differences between golfing in Korea and Vietnam?

In my opinion, fundamentally, there is not a big difference between golfing in Korea and Vietnam. However, most golf courses in Korea are located in the mountainous areas. Therefore, sometimes you will not have a clear sight while playing. It requires golfers to carefully examine the landscape before making any move, bringing an exciting sense of challenge. On the other hand, in Vietnam, the golf courses are quite flat and don’t have many “traps”, allowing players to have a broader view.

What do you think of driving range business in Vietnam nowadays?

We have recognized a difference between Korean and Vietnam golfers when it comes to practicing. At some driving ranges located in downtown Seoul, there is no surprise when seeing some golfers playing late, even at midnight. However, in Hochiminh City, even though it is hot during a day and cooler at night, people go home much earlier. Our Rach Chiec driving range is performing slightly above average with the profit barely exceeding our breakeven point.

How do you think the role of service quality on customers’ satisfaction?

We always prioritize our customers’ satisfaction. This is applied not only to golf services but to any service providers in general as the key factor to success. By paying attention to small details (facilities, customer services, etc.), we thrive when delivering a complete experience to our customers.

How to promote golf in Vietnam?

Vietnam has many advantages to develop and promote golf. This beautiful country has a mild climate and a good grass condition. Especially in the Southern part of Vietnam where the weather is warm all year and doesn’t have many typhoons or floods. Besides, the country is safe in terms of security; therefore, visitors will feel more secure than being in other nations like Philippines.

Besides environmental conditions, Vietnam also needs more support from government such as lowering the tariffs on luxury goods and golf industry. Today golf is still categorized as a luxury sport in Vietnam and this definition needs to be changed. For me, golf should be recognized as a good-for-health sport and a potential factor to attract international tourists.

Thank you for your sharing!