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THE fourth and final of the new International Series events brought to the Asian Tour through their partnership with LIV heads to the golfing stronghold of Korea this week. 

While the more high profile LIV events have attracted the bulk of the headlines, these International Series tournaments form an important part of the overall LIV strategy. 

With better fields and bigger purses than the week-to-week Asian Tour events, these tournaments will likely provide a proving ground for future LIV players and will no doubt capture the interest of players worldwide looking for a pathway to the LIV Golf riches. 

The winner of the International Series Order of Merit (separate to the Asian Tour Order of Merit) will earn a place in the 48 player LIV Golf League for 2023. 

Known as one of the more difficult courses in the country, the Robert Trent Jones II design provides a stern test for everyday players and a challenge for the pros. 

The course itself is a mixed bag ranging from narrow tee shots hemmed in by trees to expansive areas with views across several holes.

The bunkering is penal and water is in play on several holes so players with control of their ball will have a definite advantage here.

Lotte Skyhill might best be described as typical of the style of golf found in Asia where there is as much energy devoted to presentation as the architectural features of the course.

It will look grand on television and no doubt the competition will be interesting but for those with a serious interest in course design there is less to be excited about. As was the case last week in Singapore there are some interesting names on the invite list including several players who have already teed up in LIV Golf events.

Among them are former US Amateur champion Andy Ogletree, Peter Uihlein, Chase Koepka and the exciting rookie professional Turk Pettit. Among the internationals Zimbabwean Scott Vincent leads the International Series Order of Merit and will be keen for that to remain the case.

The 30-year-old seems to have found a comfort zone this year and while he struggled after a brilliant opening round in Singapore that is more likely a blip than a pattern. — Golfaustralia.com