ASGCA names Hunki Yun as new executive director

The American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) has named Hunki Yun as its new executive director. When Yun begins his tenure on September 1, he will become only the third executive director in the 77-year history of the ASGCA. Previous directors include Paul Fullmer who served from 1970-2004, and Chad Rittersbusch, who served from 2004-2024. Ritterbusch will continue to serve as executive director emeritus.

Yun is an award-winning journalist, having worked for such publications as the Orlando Sentinel, Golf Digest, Golf Magazine and Links Magazine. Since then, he has long been a staff member and administrator with the United States Golf Association, most recently serving as the director of partnerships, outreach and education in the USGA’s Research, Science and Innovation group.

Some of the events Yun has been involved in include 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,” Yun said. “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 ASGCA Board of Governors made the decision to appoint Yun after 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.”

ASGCA President Mike Benkusky said that relationships are a key part of everything architects and the ASGCA does and noted that Yun excels in this area.

“ASGCA values the relationships with our industry partners and supporters, and Hunki knows them all,” Benkusky said. “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.”