Hunki Yun (pictured) has been named executive director of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and the ASGCA Foundation. An award-winning journalist and longtime employee and director of the United States Golf Association (USGA), Yun will begin his new role on September 1, taking over from Chad Ritterbusch, who has served in the role for 20 years.
Yun has held several roles at the USGA, helping to plan and execute the USGA’s mission to advance the game and improve the everyday playing experience. 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 at events such as the Golf Innovation Symposium, the USGA Experience at USGA Championships and the Sustainability Expo 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 values and example set by my best friend, Chad Ritterbusch,” Yun said. “I have always enjoyed my association with ASGCA members and look forward to working with these talented, hard-working men and women as they shape the golf landscape and make the game fun and accessible for today’s and next generations of golfers. golfers.”
The decision was made by the ASGCA Board of Governors, following a detailed review of the 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-standing connections he has with ASGCA and ASGCA members,” Stenson said. “And you ask. In every interview he had with the committee, he asked great questions and really listened to what was being said. Those qualities from his years as a journalist are still useful.”
“Relationships are an important part of everything we do as architects and as an organization,” said ASGCA President Mike Benkusky. “ASGCA values relationships with our industry partners and supporters, and Hunki knows them all. He has presented at the ASGCA Annual Meeting and numerous industry events. He speaks the language of golf course designers and will be of great help to us.”
Yun becomes ASGCA’s third director in its 77-year history, following Paul Fullmer, who served from 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
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