The representative domestic OTT platform Tving revealed a viewership behavior analysis that demonstrates the soaring interest in the opening of the 2025 KBO League.
Not only baseball fans but also users of various ages and genders are enjoying the KBO League through Tving, once again realizing the popularity of professional baseball as a national sport.
During the weekend of the opening match of the KBO League held on March 22-23, Tving's KBO League viewership UV (unique visitors) increased by 16% compared to the same period last year, and the total viewing time increased by 130%. It is analyzed that not only the number of users searching for Tving to watch the 'KBO League' increased but also they were immersed in the matches, resulting in prolonged viewing.
The age group that watched the most games during this opening match was those in their 20s (31%), followed by those in their 30s (25%) and 40s (23%). Notably, female users aged 25-29 had the highest proportion at 10%, and the overall proportion of women in their 20s reached 20%. It shows that baseball, previously considered a male-dominated sport, is now loved by a wide range of age groups regardless of gender.
Even before the regular season began, fans' interest had already heated up. This year's KBO League exhibition game viewership UV increased by 15% compared to the previous year, and total viewing time surged by 120%, demonstrating that baseball fans are engaging deeply beyond simple observation.
In particular, the gender ratio is balanced, with males at 52% and females at 48%, with female users aged 25-29 comprising the highest portion at 10%. Including women aged 20-24, the proportion of women in their 20s nearly reached 20%, marking a steady influx of young female fans. The male fan base in their 50s also approached nearly 10%, once again proving that baseball has secured its place as a 'national sport' that transcends generations and genders.
The day with the highest viewership UV in last year's KBO League was April 21, 2024. On that day, a historic record was set with the Hanwha Eagles' home games selling out for 12 consecutive matches, and a total of eight games, including doubleheaders, were played, making it an exceptionally busy day for baseball fans. It raises curiosity about which game will attract the most users this year.
Users' reactions to Tving's broadcasting service are also enthusiastic. "The picture quality seems to have improved!", "Oh, my team lineup is shown right away!", "I've been waiting for Tving baseball!" The upgraded broadcasting service, carefully designed to allow viewers to immerse themselves even more in the matches, is receiving positive reviews.
A Tving official noted, "The significant increase in KBO League viewership UV and viewing time this year reflects the unwavering popularity of baseball," adding, "We will do our best to establish ourselves as the service you can trust for Tving’s broadcasts."
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