KBO League 2025 Season Kicks Off With Record Attendance

The KBO League officially kicked off its 2025 season on March 22 with remarkable enthusiasm as all opening games across five stadiums sold out, marking the seventh time in history that this has occurred. The total attendance for the day reached an impressive 109,950 fans, just shy of the record of 114,021 set back in 2019. The event puts an optimistic spotlight on baseball's unwavering popularity in South Korea.

Every game on this date drew crowds that filled the stadiums to their capacity. The marquee matchup featuring the defending champions, the Gwangju KIA Tigers, against the NC Dinos at Gwangju KIA Champions Field was particularly noteworthy, as it alone attracted 25,000 fans. In addition, Jamsil Stadium saw 23,750 attendees watching the LG Twins take on the Lotte Giants, while Incheon’s SSG Landers Field had 23,000 fans in attendance for the SSG Landers versus Doosan Bears game. Meanwhile, Daegu’s Samsung Lions Park filled up with 24,000 fans watching the Samsung Lions play against the Kiwoom Heroes, and the Suwon KT Wiz Park welcomed 18,700 fans for the KT Wiz facing the Hanwha Eagles.

This year's opening day attendance ranks as the second highest of all time, solidifying the KBO League's strong fan engagement. According to an official KBO statement, "The KBO League has achieved a sell-out for all opening games for the 3rd consecutive year, since the 2023 season." This achievement is significant, especially as it marks a return to a full schedule after a pandemic-limited situation, with the added excitement of featuring ten teams, unlike the eight that populated the league from 2009 to 2012.

Adding to the festivities was a live performance by the popular girl group STAYC, who graced the celebratory stage during the opening game's prelude. The group's energetic performance included their hit tracks "ASAP" and "BEBE," captivating the fans in attendance. STAYC's presence was particularly meaningful since Yoon, one of the members, hails from Gwangju, where the opening ceremony took place. "STAYC’s performance brought incredible energy to the opening game," noted a concert reviewer from Sports Today, underscoring the connection between music and sports in creating a vibrant atmosphere.

As the KBO faces its 44th season, the excitement was palpable. Various officials and team representatives expressed their hopes for a successful season ahead. "This celebration reinforces the strong bond between our team and our fans," said a representative of the KIA Tigers, reflecting on the community's support.

In addition to the excitement surrounding opening day, there were also significant achievements on the field. LG’s Moon Bo-kyung made a mark by hitting the first home run of the season, a two-run blast against Lotte's Charlie Barnes during the second inning of their opening game at Jamsil Stadium. Moon Bo-kyung, who had an impressive season prior, hitting .301 with 22 home runs in 2024, is viewed as a key player to watch this season.

This season brings forward considerable anticipation, with each game fostering a connection between the teams and their supporters, not to mention the added entertainment of special performances further enhancing the experience.

In wrapping up the opening day festivities, KBO League executives were optimistic about continuous fan engagement throughout the season. "It’s wonderful to see our fans come out in massive numbers to support their teams," remarked one KBO official. The commitment illustrated by attendees confidently signals a flourishing season ahead, promising thrilling competition on the field, spectacular performances off it, and unwavering support from the passionate fanbase.