The energy was palpable at Daegu Samsung Lions Park on September 6, 2025, as fans gathered for the much-anticipated opening ceremony of the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League. The home of the Samsung Lions buzzed with excitement, setting the stage for a new season filled with hope, drama, and the promise of unforgettable moments. With Lee Seung-hyun leading the ceremony and Moon Dong-cheol throwing the ceremonial pitch, the event marked not just the start of another baseball year, but a celebration of the sport’s enduring spirit in South Korea.
Baseball in Korea has always been more than just a game—it's a cultural phenomenon, and the opening day festivities reflected that passion. The crowd roared as Lee Seung-hyun, a familiar face to Samsung Lions supporters, took center stage to kick off the proceedings. Moon Dong-cheol, known for his poise under pressure, delivered the opening pitch, a symbolic gesture that echoed throughout the stands and into the hearts of fans across the country.
But the anticipation didn’t end with the opening ceremony. The following day, September 7, a special event was set to unfold: a 1st inning, 1-run hit opening pitch showcase featuring both Moon Dong-cheol and the legendary Ryu Hyun-jin. The two were scheduled to share the mound and participate in an on-field interview, drawing even more attention to the season’s early days. For many, seeing Ryu Hyun-jin back in action was a highlight in itself—his presence always seems to electrify the ballpark.
Speaking of Ryu Hyun-jin, the Hanwha Eagles ace has been making headlines of his own. Despite a challenging August, where he started five games and pitched 30.1 innings with a solid 3.26 ERA, Ryu’s win column didn’t reflect his efforts. The lack of run support from his team left him with two losses and no victories for the month—a tough pill to swallow for any competitor. Yet, Ryu’s response showcased the veteran leadership he’s known for. According to TV Daily, when Hanwha manager Kim Kyung-moon expressed regret over the team’s inability to provide runs, Ryu simply replied, “If the team wins, that’s all that matters.”
That attitude didn’t go unnoticed by fans or teammates. In Channel A’s fandom platform ‘Yaduck Pick’ August ‘Monthly Pick’ Best Player voting, Ryu Hyun-jin emerged as the overwhelming favorite, securing 6,070 out of a total 23,774 votes. That’s a testament to his popularity and the respect he commands both on and off the field. The voting, which allows fans to support their favorite players through the ‘Yaduck Pick’ official website and apps, has become a beloved tradition for KBO enthusiasts. The top pick receives a special reward: a digital billboard ad in the heart of Seoul’s Myeong-dong district, highlighting the player’s achievements for all to see.
This month’s recognition is more than just an individual accolade for Ryu. It’s a nod to his resilience, his ability to stay focused despite adversity, and his unwavering commitment to his team. Even when the wins don’t come easy, Ryu’s professionalism shines through. As one fan put it, “He pitches with heart every game. Even when things don’t go his way, he never stops fighting for the Eagles.”
Ryu’s August numbers tell a story of grit and determination. Three quality starts in five appearances, an ERA that would make most pitchers envious, and a willingness to step up on short rest—all while shouldering the hopes of a team hungry for success. It’s no wonder he’s been described as the heartbeat of the Hanwha Eagles’ rotation. And with the season just getting underway, there’s every reason to believe his best is yet to come.
The ‘Monthly Pick’ isn’t just about Ryu, though. The voting also recognized the stellar play of Doosan’s Yang Eui-ji, who finished second after a torrid August at the plate—batting over .400 and providing a spark for his club. LG’s Park Dong-won took third, rounding out a trio of stars who’ve given fans plenty to cheer about. The ‘Yaduck Pick’ platform, which offers weekly and monthly voting opportunities, has quickly become a staple of the KBO fan experience, providing a direct line between the stands and the diamond.
For the Samsung Lions and Hanwha Eagles, the opening weekend was about more than pageantry. It was a chance to set the tone for the months ahead. Samsung’s Lee Seung-hyun, tasked with leading the home side into a new campaign, looked poised and ready. Hanwha, with Ryu Hyun-jin anchoring their staff, entered the season with renewed optimism. The matchup between the two teams was a reminder of the fierce competition that defines the KBO League—where every game matters, and every player has a chance to become a hero.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these storylines develop. Will Ryu Hyun-jin’s leadership and consistency finally translate into wins for the Eagles? Can Lee Seung-hyun and the Lions capitalize on their strong start and make a run at the title? And which players will rise to the occasion and capture the hearts of fans in the next round of ‘Yaduck Pick’ voting?
One thing’s for sure: the 2025 KBO League is off to a thrilling start, with drama, talent, and passion on full display. The opening ceremonies, the fan engagement through ‘Yaduck Pick,’ and the performances of stars like Ryu Hyun-jin set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable season. As the games continue and the stakes get higher, fans can expect more fireworks, more surprises, and more moments that remind us all why we love baseball.
With the first pitches thrown and the first cheers echoing through Daegu, the journey has only just begun. The action is ongoing, and the race for glory is wide open—just the way KBO fans like it.
