"Korea's 'post-game culture' is impressive; samgyetang and samgyeopsal are also the best" — Special memories of Japan's Fujitsu, which has visited Korea for three consecutive years

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

For Japan's Fujitsu Red Wave, who are aiming for a third consecutive title at the Park Shin-ja Cup, Korea is no longer an unfamiliar place. Having visited Korea for three straight years, they have been accumulating special memories one by one even off the court.

Fujitsu advanced to the final by defeating Incheon Shinhan Bank 88-60 in the semifinals of the 2026 KB Kookmin Bank Park Shin-ja Cup held at the Cheongju Indoor Gymnasium on the 10th.

Fujitsu, which has claimed the top spot at the Park Shin-ja Cup for two consecutive years, will achieve a historic three-peat as the first overseas team to do so if they win this year as well. Their opponent in the final is Asan Woori Bank, led by head coach Jeon Ju-won. Woori Bank defeated Cheongju KB 65-63 in the semifinals.

The Fujitsu squad did not let their guard down ahead of the final.

After the semifinal concluded, Akagi Rih said, "We expected Woori Bank to advance," adding, "They have experienced players like Kang Si-reul and Kim Dan-bi, and many veterans as well. We cannot relax."

She continued, "We share a common understanding that we must not be penetrated by Woori Bank's offense," explaining, "We are conscious of transitioning quickly from defense."

Off the court, they have also accumulated many good memories about Korea.

In particular, what impressed Akagi was the so-called "post-game culture" easily found in Korean professional sports. This refers to players meeting fans waiting outside the arena after a game to chat with them or sign autographs.

Akagi stated, "Japan does not have a post-game culture like Korea's," revealing, "I think it is a wonderful opportunity to communicate and talk with fans. That aspect was impressive."

She also did not forget to express gratitude toward the fans who come to the arena.

She said, "It is not taken for granted that fans come to the arena, whether in Japan or elsewhere," adding, "We are conscious of properly competing against our opponents right in front of us so that we can show our basketball well and allow fans to enjoy the game. We will express our basketball well so that we can receive support."

Korean food is also an indispensable source of enjoyment.

Akagi recalled eating samgyetang with her teammates. She said, "I ate samgyetang with my teammates, and it was really delicious. The meat was large too," smiling as she added, "It seems Korean food is delicious no matter where you eat it."

The dish chosen by Fujitsu head coach Kusaka Hikaru was samgyeopsal.

Head coach Kusaka said, "I really love samgyeopsal. I originally liked it, so I often eat it at home with my family in Japan as well," continuing, "When we come to Korea, the local taste is a bit different. The meat is good, and the wrapping vegetables and kimchi are also very delicious. I really like it."

She then added, "A team dinner is scheduled for tomorrow as well. I am looking forward to it," with a smile.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.View Original