It will mark the first time this has happened in a move designed to raise the profile of the event and boost opportunities for male golfers in South Korea.

First played in 1958, the event is now part of the OneAsia Tour.

The last five editions have been won by home players, including world number 124 Lee Kyoung-hoon in 2015 and 2016.

Recent international winners have included Spaniard Sergio Garcia, in 2002, Fiji's Vijay Singh in 2007, and United States' Rickie Fowler in 2011.

“We are delighted to offer places in The Open for the winner and runner-up of the Kolon Korea Open beginning with next year’s Championship at Royal Birkdale,” said Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director of Championships at The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (The R&A).

“The Open brings together the best players from around the world and is a truly global celebration of golf. 

"[South] Korea is a strong golfing nation and these new exemptions will create added incentive for the golfers competing in this historic tournament.”

The 2017 Kolon Korea Open will be played from June 1 to 4 at Woojeong Hills Country Club in South Chungcheong Province.

The Open - one of four Majors in the golfing calendar - is then scheduled for Royal Birkdale in Southport from July 20 to 23.

South Korea dominates the women's game, with Park Inbee the reigning Olympic champion, but has proved less successful on the male side. 

“These exemptions for The Open will be vital in rapidly raising the level of the Korea Open and Korean men’s golf in general to the level of our women," added Korea Golf Association President Hur Kwang-soo.

“All Korean golfers will be very proud of and grateful to The Open for this most welcome decision."