*This content was translated by AI.
The South Korean national baseball team, set to pursue its fifth consecutive gold medal in baseball at the 2026 Nagoya-Aichi Asian Games, has finally boarded for the journey. Under the leadership of head coach Ryu Ji-hyun (55), the Asian Games baseball team departed for the competition venue through Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 18th.
Upon arriving at the departure lounge, Coach Ryu met with reporters before leaving for the competition site to share updates on the players' physical condition, plans for local adaptation, and his resolve heading into the tournament. Among the top concerns raised on-site were the poor facilities and ground maintenance conditions at local venues, as well as weather forecasts including rain predictions. It is reported that frequent rainfall has been occurring in the Aichi region where baseball matches will be held.
Addressing these concerns, Coach Ryu Ji-hyun spoke candidly about the local situation while emphasizing the need to remain vigilant. "We have not yet heard that the current local environment is particularly favorable," he stated. "Even from the KBO's perspective, we sent information one day earlier upon arriving locally, but we still haven't received reports confirming that the grounds and related facilities are fully prepared."
Nevertheless, Coach Ryu expressed quiet confidence: "Of course, we expect them to prepare well on-site, but we have been preparing since the domestic call-up period, keeping in mind that various unexpected variables could arise. We will address these aspects thoroughly without any gaps."
While expressing his sole concern regarding local infrastructure, Coach Ryu demonstrated stronger-than-ever confidence in the team's physical condition. In particular, he firmly addressed the 'injury issue,' which had been a major concern among fans and coaching staff. The key question is whether infielders such as Moon Bo-kyung and Kim Do-young from Lee Beon (CEO) can handle defensive duties.
Coach Ryu stated emphatically: "There is absolutely no worry about injuries. From the first day of the domestic call-up, players joined in excellent condition, and we have even conducted double checks internally." He added, "Focusing on the crucial Group Stage match against Taiwan, we worked hard to bring our physical condition up until yesterday. There are no issues with their health whatsoever."
He also expressed satisfaction with the training outcomes during the short domestic call-up period. Coach Ryu noted: "In fact, due to the limited call-up period for the Asian Games, the core focus is not on extensive training but on adjusting physical condition to match game days. Players who performed well in their leagues have maintained their momentum, and even those whose fitness was a concern have delivered in actual games, expanding our available options."
Regarding the pivotal Group Stage match against Taiwan—the critical juncture for achieving five consecutive tournament victories—Coach Ryu identified 'securing early initiative' as the key. "In short-term competitions, especially international tournaments, scoring first is paramount," he explained. "Gaining early momentum and controlling the game's atmosphere are central points. Having thoroughly analyzed opponents and communicated with players during preparation, we expect to maintain a favorable flow."
Finally, Coach Ryu affirmed: "The sense of duty and responsibility that comes with wearing the national emblem as a representative player remains unchanged." He continued, "Lee Beon (CEO) is primarily composed of young players, creating a brighter and more tightly-knit atmosphere. In particular, Noh Si-hwan has exceeded expectations by effectively anchoring the team's core, and we anticipate strong synergy from this. We will do our utmost to deliver a gold medal to fans."
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*This content was translated by AI.
