Stepping Up to the Plate: Korea’s Professional Baseball Enters the Ten Million Spectators Era
- Professional baseball has surpassed 10 million spectators this year, a milestone that solidifies its position as the most popular sport in Korea.
- The price of professional baseball tickets varies by team, but the cheapest outfield seats are 9,000 won.
- According to the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) data, as of September 23, the revenue of 10 professional teams was approximately 154 billion won.
Professional Baseball Surpasses 10 Million Spectators for the First Time in Korea
Professional baseball has surpassed 10 million spectators this year, a milestone that solidifies its position as the most popular sport in Korea. Launched in 1982, professional baseball has taken 42 years to achieve this feat.
Affordability and Entertainment Value
The price of professional baseball tickets varies by team, but the cheapest outfield seats are 9,000 won. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to spend more than 3 hours of leisure time at a low price.
A Respectable Industry
According to the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) data, as of September 23, the revenue of 10 professional teams was approximately 154 billion won. The number of people working in the industry, including players, team staff, and baseball stadium stores, is roughly calculated to be tens of thousands.
Emergence of Outstanding New Players
One of the reasons for the surge in spectators is the emergence of outstanding new players. Kim Do-young, who led KIA to first place in the regular season, is challenging the record of ’40 (home runs) – 40 (stolen bases)’ for the first time as a native player in KBO League history.
Another rookie, Doosan closer Kim Taek-yeon, has been making waves with his fastballs that exceed 150 km/h. His performances have been cathartic for fans, who are eagerly anticipating the possibility of a matchup between Kim Do-young and Kim Taek-yeon in the Korean Series.
Unique Cheering Culture
Korean fans have a unique cheering culture, creating songs for each player and singing them together when the player appears. They also enjoy themselves by following the dances of popular cheerleaders. The seats in front of the cheering squad are the first to be occupied before the baseball game starts.
A Big Role in Society
With the rise of professional baseball, South Korea has become an advanced country. Professional baseball is playing a big role in our society, as more and more fans visit the stadium with their families and friends to enjoy professional baseball to their heart’s content.
By Sung Baek-yu, former spokesperson for the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics Organizing Committee