Area Sports Round-Up

A monthly overview of local sports teams, featuring area teams and brought to you…

By Zhang Jiuzhou (Julius)

Kia Tigers Claim KBO Championship After 7 Years

On October 28, the Kia Tigers clinched their 12th Korea Series title by defeating the Samsung Lions 7–5 in Game 5 of the 2024 KBO Korea Series, securing the championship with a 4–1 series victory. With this win, the Tigers have reclaimed their spot as the team with the most championships in KBO history. From 1983 to 1997, the Tigers’ predecessor, the Haitai Tigers, won the Korea Series nine times; after becoming the Kia Tigers, they went on to capture titles in 2009, 2017, and now 2024. Gwangju Mayor Kang Gi-jung congratulated the Tigers, calling the team “the strength of Gwangju.”

At a November 3 press conference, the Kia Tigers announced a three-year contract worth 2.6 billion KRW for head coach Lee Bum-ho, with an annual salary of 500 million KRW, making him the highest-paid active coach. Lee took on the role unexpectedly in February when the previous coach was dismissed. Initially a hitting coach, Lee’s age, close to that of the players, has helped him foster a collaborative environment. “I felt maintaining a balanced coach–player relationship was better than asserting authority,” Lee shared.

Commenting on the season’s breakout star, Kim Do-young, Coach Lee said, “Kim Do-young’s growth has redefined the team. Despite his youth, even veteran players rely on him.” Lee added, “Veterans like Choi Hyoung-woo regularly consult Kim Do-young; it’s become a cultural shift for us.” Lee believes Kim’s development into the team’s ace will greatly benefit the Tigers into the future.

Foreign pitcher James Naile, in his KBO debut season, was instrumental in moving the team to the championship, recording a 12–5 win-loss record, a 2.53 ERA, and 138 strikeouts in 149⅓ innings across 26 games. Naile’s translator mentioned Naile’s interest in staying in Korea if conditions allow, leaving fans hopeful that he might return next season.

The Tigers’ home stadium, Gwangju-Kia Champions Field, will undergo a major renovation, replacing seating for the first time in ten years. With a planned budget of 1.2 billion KRW, the project is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025 season.

Gwangju FC Secures Spot in 2025 K1

Gwangju FC will remain to the K1 League next season, an achievement given its player transfers and injuries. Head coach Lee Jung-hyo’s insistence on integrating goalkeeper Kim Gyeong-min into the national team paid off when Kim was named to the latest squad on November 4. Praised for his skill in goalkeeping and ball control, Kim has been pivotal in realizing Lee’s vision for Gwangju’s gameplay.

However, Gwangju FC faces severe financial difficulties, recently incurring large debts despite back-to-back bank loans. Without additional funds, they risk losing their K1 League standing by 2030. An emergency request for a 4 billion KRW supplemental budget has so far been denied, pushing the club to consider halving its operating expenses. This move is likely to meet resistance from both players and coaching staff, as it may affect the team’s competitiveness and achievements.

AI Peppers Make Roster Change Amid Season Challenges

On October 29, the AI Peppers announced their decision to part ways with Croatian player Barbara Dapic after only two matches, citing injury concerns. She will be replaced by 29-year-old Taylor Fricano from the U.S., who brings a versatile skill set and blocking expertise. Fricano, a 190 cm player from the University of North Carolina, has previously played in leagues across Europe and the U.S. Head coach Chang So-yun expressed confidence in Fricano’s impact on the team’s playoff ambitions, noting, “With her blocking awareness and versatility, she adds a new layer to our strategy.” Fricano, meanwhile, voiced her gratitude and excitement about joining the Korean league, stating, “I’m looking forward to contributing to the AI Peppers’ success.

The Author

Zhang Jiuzhou (Julius) is from Harbin, China. He began writing in 2022 and has contributed to the Chinese media in Gwangju. He concurrently serves at a sports data company. He is pursuing a master’s degree in media and communications and is responsible for the Chinese Students Association at Chonnam University.