The Chiba Lotte Marines of Japanese professional baseball invited Korean baseball legend Tae-kyun Kim (43) as their ceremonial first pitcher. It was a special day for Kim, who was invited as a key player in the 2010 Japan Series championship.

As a retired number player for the Hanwha Eagles of the KBO League and currently a baseball commentator for KBSN Sports, Tae-kyun Kim made the ceremonial first pitch on the 27th at Zozo Marine Stadium, located in Chiba, Japan, upon the official invitation of the Chiba Lotte Marines.

The pitch occurred as part of a special event called 'KOREAN NIGHT' hosted by the Chiba Lotte Marines. 'KOREAN NIGHT' is a cultural exchange event between Korea and Japan held from the 27th to the 29th for three days, featuring Kim, who was invited as a symbolic figure representing Korean baseball. The Chiba Lotte organization introduced Kim as "a living legend in the memories of fans and an unforgettable presence in the team's history," thereby adding to its significance.

Tae-kyun Kim was a key player in leading the Chiba Lotte Marines to victory in the Japan Series during the 2010-2011 season. In 2010, he recorded the most votes for the Pacific League All-Star and won the home run race, gaining enormous popularity in Japan.

This ceremonial first pitch, occurring 14 years later, remained a moment that transcended a simple ceremony, conveying the past glory and current emotion to baseball fans in both countries.

On that day, prior to the pitch, Kim conducted a photo time event with fans selected through advance registration. He took photos with the fans and greeted them, providing warm memories to fans who visited the stadium after a long time.

Subsequently, Kim appeared on the field with a cheerful expression, acknowledging the applause of fans by raising his hand, and concluded the meaningful pitch by throwing the ball with great care. Local fans chanted his name, feeling his enduring popularity.

Kim stated, "Coming to Marine Stadium after a long time brought vivid memories of my playing days," and added, "I sincerely thank the Japanese fans for their warm welcome. I hope that Korea and Japan get closer through baseball."

A Chiba Lotte official emphasized, "Player Kim Tae-kyun is not merely a foreign mercenary, but a special presence in the history of our team. His pitch was a symbolic scene that united baseball fans from both countries once again."

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