2009 Runner-up Manager Kim In-sik: "Relieve My Regret by Reaching the Final"

Former national baseball team manager Kim In-sik, known as the "People's Manager," urged the Korean team to perform well at the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC).

Kim, who led the team to the semifinals in the 2006 WBC and to a runner-up finish in 2009, sent a message on March 11 to the national squad, which has advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in 17 years, saying, "Cast aside your fears and fight with confidence." He added, "In a short tournament, anything can happen. If our team takes on the challenge without fear, they could surpass the achievements of 2009."

Kim stressed the importance of veteran leadership. "Back then, it was the veterans who erased their fears and led the way," he said, adding, "This time, experienced players like Ryu Hyunjin of Hanwha Eagles and Noh Kyung-eun of SSG Landers seem to be playing a central role. I hope they approach every game with the confidence that they can win against any team." Regarding his prot?g?, Ryu Hyunjin, Kim commented, "Given his wealth of experience, I hope he can pass on to the younger players the right mindset they need for the remaining games."

Former South Korean national baseball team manager Kim In-sik wished for the success of the Korean players who advanced to the WBC quarterfinals for the first time in 17 years. Yonhap News

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Kim particularly expressed his hope to see the Korean team defeat Japan and win the championship in this tournament. He said, "The 2009 final is still vivid in my memory and remains a match filled with regret," and continued, "I look forward to seeing Korea reach the final and overcome Japan." He added, "In fact, the first-round game against Japan in this tournament was definitely winnable. If our juniors can achieve the championship dream that eluded me 17 years ago, it would finally lift that regret."

In the 2009 WBC final against Japan, Korea managed to tie the game dramatically in the bottom of the ninth while trailing 2-3, pushing the match into extra innings. However, they conceded two runs in the top of the tenth and ultimately lost 3-5. Afterward, Korea failed to advance past the second round in the 2013, 2017, and 2023 tournaments. This year, however, they made a dramatic return to the quarterfinals for the first time in 17 years. Korea will play the quarterfinal match against the first-place team from Group D at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, at 7:30 a.m. KST on March 14. The likely opponent is either the Dominican Republic or Venezuela.

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