Pak Se-ri Addresses Legal Dispute with Father in Emotional Press Conference
Former Korean golf legend Pak Se-ri broke down in tears during a press conference in Seoul as she addressed a legal dispute with her father, Pak Joon-chul, on Tuesday. The World Golf Hall of Famer, who now serves as the director of the Seri Pak Hope Foundation, revealed that the foundation had filed a complaint against her father for allegedly forging a document to set up an international golf school under the foundation’s name.
The foundation, which aims to support junior golfers and host amateur competitions, reported the incident to the police last September. The case has now been referred to the prosecution for possible indictment. Pak Se-ri accused her father of using a forged stamp bearing the foundation’s name when submitting the application for the golf school project. Despite the allegations, Pak emphasized that she has no plans to open any golf school under the foundation.
During the emotional press conference, Pak admitted that the legal situation has strained her relationship with her father, citing ongoing financial issues as a long-standing source of tension. The 46-year-old golfer revealed that she had previously covered her father’s debts with her winnings and corporate endorsements but has now reached a breaking point.
“I can no longer take on his problems,” Pak said, fighting back tears. “I will not be responsible for any of his financial issues from now on.”
Despite the personal turmoil, Pak emphasized her commitment to the foundation’s mission of identifying and supporting young talent in golf. She expressed her determination to keep her private life separate from her professional responsibilities and vowed to focus on the foundation’s work.
Pak Se-ri retired from professional golf in 2016 with an impressive record of 25 LPGA wins, including five majors. She made history in 1998 with a groundbreaking rookie season, capturing two majors and earning the LPGA Rookie of the Year award. In 2007, Pak became the youngest player ever to qualify for the World Golf Hall of Fame at the age of 29.
The legal dispute between Pak Se-ri and her father has captured the attention of the golfing world, shedding light on the personal struggles of a golfing icon. Despite the challenges she faces, Pak remains dedicated to her foundation’s mission and the legacy of excellence she has built in the sport.
