SEOUL - San Diego Padres' shortstop Kim Ha-seong is relishing the opportunity to represent Major League Baseball (MLB) in his homeland, South Korea, during the groundbreaking Seoul Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
According to Yonhap News Agency, where he honed his skills with the Kiwoom Heroes, is a profound honor. The 28-year-old athlete, who transitioned from the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) to MLB, underscored the significance of this event in promoting baseball and inspiring Asian athletes to aspire to major league careers. "It's an honor for me to play in the first MLB games in Korea," Kim stated, acknowledging the influence of Asian players who have previously succeeded in MLB.
Kim's journey from a KBO All-Star renowned for his offensive prowess to a Gold Glove-winning utility player in MLB exemplifies adaptability and excellence. With a primary focus on the shortstop position this season, Kim aims to motivate young Asian infielders through his performance and dedication.
Beyond the field, Kim has also taken on the role of cultural ambassador, introducing his Padres teammates to Korean language and customs. His efforts reflect a broader commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and camaraderie within the team. "As a Korean, it made me feel proud," Kim remarked, expressing his hope that his teammates would gain a deeper appreciation of Korean culture during their stay.
The Seoul Series, marking MLB's debut in South Korea, not only highlights the globalization of baseball but also celebrates the achievements and influence of Asian players in the sport. As Kim Ha-seong steps onto the field at Gocheok Sky Dome, he carries the aspirations of a nation and the respect of the baseball community.
SEOUL - Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese baseball sensation and Los Angeles Dodgers star, has expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic reception he received from South Korean fans, highlighting the deep respect and camaraderie transcending the historic sports rivalry between Japan and South Korea. As Ohtani prepares to participate in the first MLB regular season games held in Seoul, his interactions with local fans and media have underscored the universal respect for his talent.According to Yonhap News Agency, the warmth and admiration he has encountered in South Korea are particularly meaningful given the competitive history between the two nations in sports. Addressing the media at Gocheok Sky Dome, where the Dodgers are set to play the San Diego Padres, Ohtani conveyed his respect for Korean players and the national team, emphasizing the honor he feels in being so well-received. The presence of "Shotime Korea," a dedicated fan club, further signifies Ohtani's impact and the mutual respect that exists between him and the Korean fans.
Ohtani's journey to MLB stardom, marked by two American League MVP awards in 2021 and 2023, has been nothing short of meteoric. His decision to sign a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers not only set a new benchmark in sports contracts but also placed him among the game's most scrutinized athletes. Despite this pressure, Ohtani remains focused on his performance, cherishing the opportunity to play alongside fellow MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman and contribute to the Dodgers' success.
Reflecting on his previous experience in Seoul during the under-18 baseball world championship in 2012, Ohtani shared fond memories of South Korea and expressed enthusiasm for returning as an MLB player. His colleagues, Freeman and Betts, also commented on the significance of the Seoul Series, recognizing it as both a unique cultural experience and a critical juncture in the season, emphasizing the importance of winning games while embracing the opportunity to forge stronger team bonds.
As the Dodgers embark on this historic series, the presence of a global superstar like Ohtani not only elevates the event but also highlights baseball's power to unite fans and players across different cultures and nationalities, setting the stage for a memorable and competitive showcase in Seoul.