Before making the move to the big leagues in 2021, San Diego Padres star shortstop Ha-Seong Kim played for seven years in his native South Korea.
He was one of the best players in the KBO, routinely hitting near or above .300, with 20-homer power and 30-steal speed.
He got on base, displayed bat-to-ball skills, amazing defense…he had it all.
He was one of the best and most popular players in his country.
Now, a few years later and with three MLB seasons under his belt, he has returned home as his Padres play a few tune-up games ahead of the Seoul Series.
Since landing in the country last week, Kim has met with the president and hit a home run to get the fans excited, per FOX Sports: MLB.
Ha-Seong Kim homers in his return to Korea 👏
The atmosphere in the park was electric, and it was an exhibition game.
You can only imagine how things will be on Wednesday, when the Seoul Series between the Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers officially begins.
These are moments that Kim won’t ever forget.
He has been welcomed like a hero.
Since making his MLB debut with the Padres in 2021, he has slashed a solid .245/.325/.383 with 36 homers and 56 thefts.
He had his best year yet in 2023, with a .260/.351/.398 line, 17 home runs, and 38 stolen bases, not to mention excellent infield defense.
Kim has blossomed into one of the best players on the Padres roster and an underrated star in the league.
With him as one of the top performers, the organization intends to contend for one of the Wild Card spots in the National League.