March 22, 2025, marked a remarkable day for professional baseball in South Korea as the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League opened its 44th season with a record attendance. Fans packed stadiums nationwide for the first time since the 2015 transition to a ten-team system, leading to a sellout at all five venues involved.
The day's highlight was the clash between the Lotte Giants and LG Twins held at the iconic Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul, which welcomed 23,750 spectators. Additionally, strong crowds gathered in Gwangju at the Kia Champions Field, where the defending champions KIA Tigers faced NC Dinos, resulting in all 25,000 seats sold out. Incheon also saw a full house of 23,000 spectators at SSG Landers Field for the matchup between SSG Landers and Doosan Bears. Daegu’s Samsung Lions Park and Suwon’s KT Wiz Park completed the roster with 24,000 and 18,700 fans, respectively. Overall, attendance reached a staggering total of 109,950 for the day.
This achievement of three consecutive years of openings with all stadiums sold out is a clear indicator of the increasing draw of the KBO League. The KBO announced that ticket sales were at capacity even hours before games began, pointing to a vibrant and growing fan base.
"This marks the third consecutive sellout for all stadiums during the opening game, a significant achievement for the KBO League," reported officials. This level of support has not been seen since the earlier years of the league's existence when it operated with only eight teams.
The opening day’s success extends beyond mere attendance figures, highlighting the popularity of baseball in the region. The 109,950 recorded attendees made it the second-highest for an opening day, following the impressive 114,021 seen in the 2019 season.
This year has set the stage for an exciting season ahead, as the KBO aims to push boundaries. The league's ticket sales have consistently skyrocketed, contributing to a robust economy surrounding the games. The historical attendance rates underscore a growing commitment to baseball, enriching the cultural fabric of South Korea.
The KBO has experienced major leaps in attendance since 2019, with over 100,000 spectators attending opening games for the fourth time on record, following notable years in 2019, 2023, and 2024. The excitement and enthusiasm found on opening day indicate a promising trajectory as the league seeks to maintain this momentum.
Fans were enthusiastic, with many arriving hours before the first pitch and filling the stands with energy and anticipation for the season. A league representative noted, "We’re thrilled with the turnout today. Last year’s success seems to have ignited even more enthusiasm for baseball in Korea.”
In the financial realm, the league’s impressive attendance reflects broader economic benefits as well. The average number of spectators across the games was notably high, near historical records, and ticket revenue from these games is expected to greatly contribute to the league’s financial standing.
As professional baseball continues its journey toward a goal of reaching 10 million total spectators within a single season, the KBO seeks innovative ways to enhance the game-day experience further, drawing even more potential fans to stadiums across the country. With a strong start, expectations are high for how this season will unfold and impact the landscape of Korean sports.
In conclusion, March 22, 2025, was not just another day in the KBO League; it became a symbol of the growth and vitality of professional baseball in South Korea, marking an elevation not just in numbers but in community spirit and engagement among fans.
