LPGA Opens Flagship in Korea

MK Trend has also released branded apparel and accessories with the store’s opening.

The Ladies Professional Golf Association, in partnership with licensee MK Trend, has opened its first retail store, LPGA Gallery, in South Korea.

In addition to the new retail location, MK Trend has created more than 300 styles for fall/winter, including men’s and women’s apparel, accessories and more.

 “The LPGA’s partnership with MK Trend underscores our commitment to the Korean market,” says Anne McCarthy, director, licensing and merchandising, LPGA. “We hope this apparel line enhances the fan experience and helps to grow the game of golf in Korea and the Asia Pacific region.”

MK Trend is also planning to open more than a dozen LPGA Gallery locations in and around Seoul by the end of this month, followed by 100 stores by 2018. The LPGA Gallery is also slated to open in China in two years.

“Combining LPGA’s brand prominence with MK Trend’s expertise in distribution and design, we are confident that we can create one of the most successful golf wear brands in Asia,” says Michael Kim, chief executive officer, MK Trend. “We fully expect to have the same type of success with LPGA, as we’ve had with the NBA in which we have 102 stores in Korea since its inception in 2011. We look forward to a successful retail partnership with the LPGA.”

The Brand Liaison represents LPGA for licensing in the U.S.