Koo Ji-won, also known as Gu Ji-won, was born on July 20, 1994. He is a South Korean-born Japanese rugby union player who specializes in playing as a prop. Currently, he is a member of the Sunwolves in Super Rugby and plays for Honda Heat in Japan's domestic Top League. Koo Ji-Won has been residing in Japan since the age of 2.
Despite his limited appearances for the Sunwolves, with only two Super Rugby games, including one start, Koo was called up to represent Japan's senior squad for the end-of-year rugby union internationals in 2017. He attended Nippon Bunri University High School and Takushoku University before signing with the Sunwolves ahead of their inaugural Super Rugby season in 2016.
Koo Ji-won is known for his imposing physical presence, utilizing his size for strong ball carries and scrummaging. Despite his relatively short time with the Japanese team, he is considered a promising player for the Sunwolves and was once again included in the senior squad in 2017.
He solidified his position in the Brave Blossoms' squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where he has made 11 appearances. As the team advances to the quarter-finals of the tournament, Koo Ji-Won continues to contribute to Japan's success on the international stage.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Gu has been named in the training squad for Japan.
KG(02/07/2023)
Career
 |
Kobelco Kobe Steelers Tighthead Prop |
2022 - present |
 |
Honda Heat Tighthead Prop |
2018 - 2021 |
 |
Japan XV Tighthead Prop |
2023 - 2024 |
 |
Japan Tighthead Prop |
2017 - 2024 |
 |
Sunwolves Loosehead Prop |
2017 - 2024 |
