CNBLUE's Kang Min Hyuk to throw ceremonial first pitch for Kia Tigers

CNBLUE's Kang Min Hyuk will once again prove his lifelong devotion to the Kia Tigers on the mound. Having cheered for the team since kindergarten, he is set to serve as the ceremonial first pitch thrower after two years.

Kang will throw the first pitch at the Kia Tigers vs. KT Wiz game held at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field on the 1st of next month. The appearance is particularly meaningful as it is not just a celebrity appearance, but a moment for a dedicated fan who has supported the team for a lifetime.

Previously, in September 2023, Kang made his first ceremonial pitch since his debut during a game between Kia and the LG Twins. As Kia secured a victory at the time, he earned the nickname "Victory Fairy" among fans. He has continued his interest in baseball, even participating as a special commentator for MLB broadcasts last August.

Ahead of his second ceremonial pitch, Kang introduced himself as a "lifelong fan," stating, "It has only been the Kia Tigers from kindergarten until now." He added, "As a fan who has wished for a championship every year, I feel truly special to be in charge of the ceremonial pitch once again."

His ambitions are clear. Kang expressed his desire, saying, "If it were up to me, I would like to show up as a regular ceremonial pitcher every year," and even shared his dream of cheering alongside the players after Kia wins a championship. He expressed his determination to throw the ball with sincerity, aiming to deliver good victory energy to the players.

Even at 35, Kang continues to support the team he cheered for in his childhood while maintaining a busy music career. He will hold a fan meeting "IF I WERE..." in Taipei on October 10, and as CNBLUE, he will perform the final show of the 2026 World Tour "3LOGY" in Macau on November 14–15.

In February next year, he will also hold a solo concert at the Seoul KSPO DOME for the first time in 17 years since CNBLUE's debut. Attention is focused on what kind of "victory energy" Kang—who lives as a band member on stage and a long-time fan at the baseball stadium—will leave on the mound this time.