SEOUL — Kia Tigers' All-Star Kim Do-yeong has made history by becoming the youngest player in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) to achieve the "30-30" club milestone, reaching 30 home runs and 30 steals in a single season.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim hit his 30th home run of the season during Thursday's game against the Kiwoom Heroes at Gocheok Sky Dome. This two-run shot, off Heroes starter Enmanuel De Jesus, solidified his record at 20 years, 10 months, and 13 days old, surpassing the previous record held by Park Jae-hong since the 1996 season. Prior to this game, Kim had already secured 33 steals.
Kim's achievement marks only the ninth 30-30 season in the league's history since its inception in 1982. His performance this season also positions him as a strong contender for the MVP, ranking highly in multiple batting categories. This record-setting event underscores a remarkable year for Kim, highlighted by numerous milestones, including being the first KBO player to hit double figures in home runs and steals in a single month and joining the 20-20 club in the season's first half.