But so has our reaction, which has seemingly evoked some stereotypes about Asian culture and parenting.
Former coach David Leadbetter said Ko's overbearing parents were the main factor in her slide.
His comments found favour with many critics and commentators here, who reasoned that Ko had to become much more independent to rediscover her best form.
We used to marvel at Ko's achievements, her work ethic, and her well rounded personality, as she became one of our greatest sportspeople.
Now she is struggling, and it's apparently all the fault of her supposedly demanding, obsessive Korean parents.
Korean culture has family at the core. It's common for parents to live in the same space as their married children, rather than across town in a retirement village. It's built on reciprocity and sacrifice.
Ko is the product of her environment, and asking her to step away from her parents is like expecting Kiwis to stop obsessing about rugby.
Along with foundation coach Guy Wilson, her parents have also been her greatest influence; she's achieved her amazing success because of her parents' dedication, guidance and support, not despite them.
Gil Hong and Tina Hyon should be put on a pedestal, rather than castigated.