Area Sports Round-Up – September 2025

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

By Zhang Jiuzhou (Julius)

Kia Tigers Lose Kim Do-yeong for Remainder of Season

Kia Tigers star infielder Kim Do-yeong has been ruled out for the rest of the regular season after suffering his third hamstring injury of the year. The incident occurred on August 7 during an away game in Busan against the Lotte Giants. In the bottom of the fifth inning, Kim felt pain in his left hamstring while fielding a ground ball and asked to be substituted. Medical examinations the following day revealed a left hamstring muscle injury.

Given the recurrence and the remaining schedule, the Tigers have decided to prioritize Kim’s rest and rehabilitation to prevent overexertion this year. The club has not yet determined whether he will be available for the postseason.

Kim first injured his left hamstring on opening day, March 22, against the NC Dinos, sidelining him for a month. After returning on April 25, he suffered a Grade 2 strain in his right hamstring while attempting a steal against the Kiwoom Heroes on May 27, keeping him out for over two months. He made his latest comeback on August 2, only to be injured again after just three games.

The 23-year-old was a breakout star last season, hitting .347 with 38 home runs in 141 games and earning the KBO MVP award. However, this season has been underwhelming, with Kim appearing in just 30 games, hitting .309 with seven home runs and 27 RBIs.

The setback could also impact Kim’s long-term MLB ambitions. While he cannot be posted until after the 2028 season, repeated hamstring injuries could hurt his value, and scouts are likely aware of his medical history.

In a separate move to strengthen their bullpen ahead of the trade deadline, Kia completed a three-for-three deal with the NC Dinos, sending outfielders Choi Won-jun and Lee Woo-seong, along with infielder Hong Jong-pyo, in exchange for pitchers Kim Si-hoon and Han Jae-seung, plus infielder Jeong Hyun-chang. The move comes as the Tigers’ relievers have struggled with fatigue and late-game ERA spikes.

Despite regaining key injured players recently, Kia’s road performance remains inconsistent. The gap between their home and away results is particularly stark, a concern the club must address to maintain their title challenge.

Gwangju FC Bring in Icelandic Striker

Iranian champions Esteghlal FC have announced the signing of winger Jasir Asani, who will join the club following the expiration of his contract with Gwangju FC. Esteghlal stated they will work to bring him to Tehran as soon as possible.

In response to Asani’s departure, Gwangju FC have signed Icelandic forward Hólmbert Aron Fridjónsson to fill the attacking void. Standing at 196 cm and weighing 85 kg, Fridjónsson brings a combination of strength and agility to the squad.

Fridjónsson began his career with HK Kópavogs in Iceland before moving to Scottish giants Celtic, and later gaining experience on loan at Denmark’s Brøndby IF. He enjoyed a prolific spell in Norway with Aalesunds FK, scoring 39 goals in 71 appearances over three seasons. He has also played for Brescia in Italy’s Serie B and Holstein Kiel in Germany’s Bundesliga 2.

An Iceland international since 2015, he has six caps and two goals. Speaking to the media, Fridjónsson said, “I’m excited to take on the challenge of playing in Korea. I want to experience the high level of the K League and its culture, and I hope to contribute by scoring goals for Gwangju.”

Gwangju FC hope Fridjónsson will spark a turnaround in the second half of the season. His arrival comes as another foreign attacker, Gabriel, departs the club. Gabriel joined Gwangju in January 2024 and made an immediate impact, scoring on his K League debut against FC Seoul. The Brazilian forward scored eight goals and registered six assists in 34 appearances last season before undergoing knee surgery. He returned this year but failed to score in eight appearances, leading to his release.

AI Peppers Overhaul Roster Amid Uncertain Rebuild

American outside hitter Zoe Weatherington has arrived in South Korea ahead of the 2025–26 V-League season, joining the AI Peppers to strengthen their attack. Weatherington, who stands 184 cm, was selected by head coach Jang So-yeon during the KOVO women’s foreign player draft held in Istanbul on May 9. Known for her athleticism and explosive power, she will be a key addition for the team.

Speaking upon her arrival on July 29, Weatherington said, “I’m very happy, grateful, and honored to join AI Peppers. The long flight was tiring, but I’m excited to meet my teammates and the fans, and I can’t wait to step onto the court.” She began training with the team on August 1.

Weatherington is expected to make her first appearance for the AI Peppers in the KOVO Cup, scheduled for September 21–28 in Yeosu. The club hopes she will play a pivotal role in their bid for a stronger showing this season.