Coming home is always special. The familiar smell of your air and the memories of the days gone by can never be replicated. Now imagine returning home and being part of a historic moment. A moment so big it’ll forever be in the annals of history. Korean ballplayer Ha-Seong Kim is about to be a part of such an event. The San Diego Padres star has just returned to South Korea for the Seoul Series and he is ecstatic. 

After years of waiting, the Korean fans are finally getting a taste of MLB. With the Padres ready to go against the Los Angeles Dodgers – Seoul Series is the first time MLB’s regular season will be played in Korea. Kim knows the depth of this moment and has shared how honored he is to be a part of it.

Ha-Seong Kim’s pride was visible during his press conference as reported by The Korea Times. The star was about to represent MLB on his home soil – a moment he hoped would act as a watershed for other Asian ballplayers. “It’s an honor for me to play in the first MLB games in Korea. And I think other Asian players that came before me paved the way,” Kim expressed.

“I think an occasion like this will allow more Asian players to dream of playing in the majors, I hope more of them will challenge themselves,” Kim said. The moment is doubly important for Kim as he’s set to play in Gocheok Sky Dome – his home park for five years with the Kiwoom Heroes. 

But while the star is looking to make a mark, he has also taken up a responsibility. Due to his teammates not knowing much about South Korea, Kim decided to help them out.

Ha-Seong Kim acknowledges his immense responsibility and helps out teammates

During a press conference, the San Diego Padres star shared how he wants his teammates to enjoy his ho,e country.  “Even though we’ll only be here for a short time and we’ll have to focus on games, I hope the guys will get to see Korea and learn more about it,” Kim said. To his credit, the star has given his teammates a crash course in Korean language and culture. Just a few days ago, Fernando Tatis Jr. posted a story saying “Annyeonghaseyo” in the perfect accent!

With the two-game series set to begin on Wednesday, the 28-year-old who is set to play as a Shortstop has taken it upon himself to inspire young fans. Kim wants to give young Asian infielders a belief that they too can make it to the Major Leagues. With his historic homecoming in place, the Seoul Series is turning out to be a must-watch event.

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Till then, Spring Training is still going strong. To see how the teams are shaping up to be, visit the ES Fancast – now broadcasting MLB Spring Breakout LIVE!