Tom Kim left Presidents Cup early to compete in Asian Games for military service exemption.

Tom Kim departed the Presidents Cup before the closing ceremony to travel to Japan for the Asian Games, where he will compete for a gold medal that would provide military service exemption in South Korea.

Kim earned four points for the International team at Medinah, the most by any player on either side, before catching a flight that departed around the same time the U.S. team accepted its trophy. The Asian Games begin Wednesday in Japan, where Kim will play alongside fellow South Korean pros S.H. Kim and Doyeob Moon.

In South Korea, able-bodied men are required to serve in the military during their twenties, but exemptions are available for certain achievements including Olympic medals or Asian Games gold medals in either individual or team competition. Kim finished eighth at the 2024 Olympics, four shots outside bronze-medal position.

Kim was reluctant to discuss the military exemption details but emphasized the honor of representing something larger than himself. He expressed excitement about returning to Asia after an extended absence and hopes to have a successful week at the Games.