South Korea's baseball league, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), started its 2026 season in late March. This is the league's 45th year. It was founded in 1982. Stadiums were full of fans on opening day.
The KBO has 10 teams across South Korea. Baseball is very popular there. Families, friends, and work colleagues go to games together. It is not just about the sport. The whole experience makes it special.
KBO stadiums are very loud and exciting. Fans sing special chants for each batter. Cheerleaders lead the crowd with drums and trumpets. The noise never stops during the game. American baseball fans are much quieter. It feels more like a concert than a sports game.
Food is also a big part of the KBO experience. Stadiums sell fried chicken that fans can order to their seats. Many fans enjoy it with beer. This combination has become very famous. Every stadium also has its own local food.
In 2024, the KBO added a pitch clock. This is a timer that counts down between throws. If the pitcher is too slow, the umpire calls an automatic ball. If the batter is not ready, a strike is called. This has made games shorter and faster.
Several strong teams are competing this season. The LG Twins play at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul. They won the 2023 Korean Series — their first title in 29 years. The Samsung Lions are from Daegu. The Kia Tigers are from Gwangju. The SSG Landers play in Incheon. The Doosan Bears also play in Seoul.