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Si Woo Kim wound up in Canada ahead of the Rocket Classic.
Professional golfer Si Woo Kim got himself involved in a bizarre situation at the Canadian border while searching for Korean BBQ.
He was stopped by eight officers in attempts to re-enter the US. A Google maps mix-up was to blame. Friend and fellow PGA Tour player Michael Kim detailed the hilarious turn of events on social media.
By the end of the night, he was able to successfully return to the States to enjoy a delicious plate of Korean BBQ. That meal was postponed about an hour and a half due to the unexpected search.
Si Woo Kim stopped at the Canadian border.
The golfer is gearing up to play in the Rocket Classic in Detroit, Michigan. Before teeing off, he planned to meet up with Michael Kim for dinner.
Michael recommended a Korean BBQ spot which he often visits when in town. Si Woo Kim searched the restaurant on Google and typed an address into his GPS. Pretty typical thus far.
Unfortunately, a diner of the same name was located closer to Si Woo. It also happened to be across the Michigan border in Canada. Without realizing, he followed his directions to the establishment. It was only at the state line that he realized his error.
BRAND new Si Woo Kim story:
There’s a solid Korean bbq restaurant I always go to when I’m in Detroit. I text Si Woo, wanna grab dinner tonight at this place? He goes sure.
He searches the name of the restaurant on Google Maps, and without much thinking starts driving. But…
— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) July 29, 2026
Si Woo Kim, according to his friend, does not own a passport. He tried turning back but was denied the opportunity. US officers told him to cross the border and turn around. On the other side, security stopped him while attempting to sort out the mix-up.
Michael says Canadian officers were initially unsure of how to handle the situation. Before crossing back into the US, Kim had eight officers surrounding his vehicle. A search for drugs and weapons was performed. Eventually, he was sent back on his way.
Having grown up in Seoul, South Korea, English is not the golfer’s first language though he’s improved his command of communication over the course of his professional career. That may or may not have played a role in the confusion.
The stop provided an unanticipated start to his weekend in Detroit, as well as a great story. After the 90-minute delay, the golfers were able to enjoy their Korean BBQ – in Michigan. They’ll both tee off in the Rocket Classic on Thursday.