[Official Announcement] 'Top Female FA Target' Kim Da-in Stays with Hyundai Construction for Record-Breaking 540 Million Won: "I Had Many Concerns, Indeed"

*This content was translated by AI.

Kim Da-in (28), the top free agent (FA) in the women's professional volleyball market, has confirmed her return to her original team, Hyundai Construction Hillstate.

On the 18th, Hyundai Construction Volleyball Club officially announced that Kim Da-in, who faced her first FA since her debut, decided to stay with the team under a record-breaking contract worth 540 million won (base salary 420 million won, option 120 million won).

Kim Da-in graduated from Chugye Elementary School, Sehwah Middle School, and Pohang Girls' High School before joining Hyundai Construction as the fourth overall pick in the second round of the 2017~2018 V-League. Playing exclusively for Hyundai Construction, she was selected to the Best 7 for the first time in the 2021~2022 season and grew into a national team setter. Last season, she appeared in 34 matches across 135 sets, ranking second in sets played (average 10.96 per match), leading Hyundai Construction to a spring championship and earning her fourth Best 7 selection.

As a result, she was the undisputed center of attention in this FA market. Multiple clubs sought to sign her with a guaranteed top-tier salary, but Kim Da-in chose to remain with Hyundai Construction.

After finalizing her FA contract, Kim Da-in stated, "It is true that I had many concerns, as this was my first FA since my debut. However, thanks to the club that believed in and supported me, and the fans who have consistently shown their unwavering love, I was able to gain confidence." She added, "I will do my utmost to stand at the top again alongside my Hyundai Construction teammates."

Kim Da-in is also seen as the new focal point to succeed Yang Hyo-jin (37), who retired at the end of last season. Yang Hyo-jin was a franchise star and one-club woman who played exclusively for Hyundai Construction for 20 years starting in 2007. She also grew within Hyundai Construction to become a national team middle blocker. Kim Da-in is considered the ideal successor following in her footsteps.

Hyundai Construction defined Kim Da-in as a new leader and conveyed congratulations from the coaching staff. Kang Sung-hyung, Hyundai Construction's head coach, evaluated her as "a setter with exceptional dedication to the team and deep trust from her teammates, truly the best setter in the country." He further emphasized, "The club will spare no effort to provide full support so that players can fully showcase their skills and grow in a stable environment."

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*This content was translated by AI.