Pak Se-ri's Barefoot Grit
Original Korean title
박세리 맨발 투혼
Pak Se-ri's Barefoot Grit means her taking off her shoes to wade barefoot into a water hazard during a 1998 US Open playoff.
Originated around 1998Last updated: August 4, 2026
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What does it mean?
At the 18th-hole playoff of the 1998 US Women's Open in July, Pak Se-ri took off her shoes and socks to step barefoot into a water hazard and pull off a successful shot -- a moment that gave hope and comfort to a nation exhausted by the IMF financial crisis. The image became so iconic it was later used as a background for renditions of the national anthem.
Where did it start?
From the playoff of the 53rd US Women's Open (July 7, 1998, Blackwolf Run Golf Club).
How is it used?
Cited symbolically when discussing grit and hope in the face of crisis.
Ratings by context haven't been confirmed yet.
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Pak Se-ri's Barefoot Grit: Pak Se-ri's Barefoot Grit means her taking off her shoes to wade barefoot into a water hazard during a 1998 US Open playoff.
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