Korean professional baseball was launched in 1982. The historic first game was between the MBC Blue Dragons and the Samsung lions. The Blue Dragons clinched the win in overtime with Lee Jong-do’s homerun. This dramatic match publicized the impressive start of Korean professional baseball. 

Ballparks have recently transformed into multi-functional cultural hub equipped with a barbecue zone and a grassy picnic area. In addition to fried chicken and beer, several food and beverage franchises opened at the stadiums, offering a wider selection of treats. Korea’s unique cheering tradition, passionate and organized, gained attention from overseas media and turned baseball stadiums into K-entertainment venues. Korean professional baseball has become more than just a sport, but has solidified its position as a cultural phenomenon.