Australian golf is mourning the death of rising star Jessica Bang, who died aged just 18 after suffering a brain haemorrhage while preparing for a tournament in Thailand.
Jessica had only recently begun her golf career on the professional circuit. She died in the hospital in Bangkok on Thursday, August 13.
The South Korean-born teenager had travelled to Thailand to prepare for the KLPGA Tour’s International Qualifying Tournament when she collapsed on August 1. She was rushed to the hospital, where she underwent emergency brain surgery and was placed on life support.
Her cousins, Summer and Amelia, launched a fundraising appeal to help bring Jessica back to Australia for treatment. However, she sadly died in Thailand with her family by her side.
“We are truly heartbroken by this news,” they wrote in an update. “However, we would like to continue to remember Jessica and celebrate her achievements, passion, and dedication to golf.”
“As her cousins, we will forever cherish the time and memories we shared with Jessica. Her sense of humour, together with her cheerful and vibrant personality, will always be remembered and treasured by our family.”
The funds raised will now contribute to Jessica’s medical expenses. Donors are continuing to contribute. At the time of writing, they have raised over $47,000.
The WPGA Tour of Australasia paid tribute to the young golfer and her impact on the Australian golfing community.
“The WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community is deeply saddened by the passing of young Tour member Jessica Bang in Thailand,” the organisation said.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community are with Jessica’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time.”
Jessica had only turned professional in November 2025, following a successful amateur career. She quickly established herself as one to watch.
In February, in just her fifth professional start, Jessica won the Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale.
“I’m so happy, I can’t even put it into words,” she said following the win. “It still doesn’t feel real yet. I did not expect this at all – big surprise.”
The win came as she was beginning to establish herself on the WPGA Tour of Australasia and pursue opportunities on the KLPGA Tour.
She had earned her place on the professional tour through qualifying school at the end of 2025, and her rapid progress had earned her the affectionate nickname “Rookie Bang”.
Her death has left the Australian golfing community mourning a young player whose professional career had only just begun.
