PGA Tour golfers Michael Kim and Si Woo Kim experienced an unexpected detour during a trip to Detroit for the Rocket Classic golf tournament, accidentally crossing the U.S. border into Canada while looking for a Korean barbecue restaurant. The incident occurred when Si Woo Kim, using Google Maps to find a restaurant he and Michael Kim frequented, mistakenly drove towards the Canadian border.
Michael Kim recounted the experience on social media, explaining that his playing partner realized they were about to cross into Canada but found himself on a one-way road with no opportunity to turn back. Without his passport, only his wallet, Si Woo Kim proceeded into Canada and then joined the line to return to the United States.
At the border crossing, Si Woo Kim, who is not related to Michael Kim, attempted to explain the situation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers. He expressed nervousness while pointing to his courtesy car and mentioning his participation in the golf tournament. The officers, unsure of how to proceed, escalated the situation, leading to approximately eight officers surrounding the vehicle to investigate. They conducted a search of the car for weapons and inquired about any illicit substances before eventually allowing him to re-enter the U.S.
Despite the hour-long delay and the security checks, the golfers eventually reached their intended restaurant. Michael Kim concluded the story by noting it was a memorable experience and thanking Si Woo Kim for the unexpected content. Si Woo Kim later confirmed on Instagram that they had returned safely without their passports.
The Rocket Classic is being held this week at the Detroit Golf Club.