"For the players, it is an incredible source of motivation. I think the fans feel as though they are playing in the game alongside us," said Kim Do-young about the power of the "Red Wave"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

KIA Tigers "superstar" Kim Do-young (23), who is heating up both inside and outside the ballpark, bowed his head in deep gratitude for the passionate cheering of fans who have turned the autumn baseball stadium red.

Ahead of Game 1 of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Postseason Playoffs (PO, best-of-five series) against the Samsung Lions, which was scheduled to be held at Daegu Samsung Lions Park on the 25th, Kim Do-young met with reporters and shared a lighthearted yet sincere conversation. Game 1 was postponed by one day due to rain and will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the 26th at the same venue.

This fall, Kim Do-young's presence extended beyond his powerful hitting. As KIA, who advanced directly to the Junior Playoffs (Junior PO) as the third seed in the regular season, defeated the LG Twins with a three-game sweep, Kim Do-young soared with a .333 batting average (3 hits in 9 at-bats), 3 home runs, and 8 RBIs over three games, capturing the series MVP.

His influence was also explosive outside the field. After Game 1 of the Junior POs, Kim Do-young urged fans during a broadcast interview to "match our dress code," and this single remark immediately moved the fan base. The stands were instantly covered in a wave of red uniforms and T-shirts.

On this day as well, Kim Do-young smiled when discussing the intense cheering battle between both teams' fans, saying, "I think it is wonderful that such a dynamic unfolds." He then spoke about card sections, stating, "During the game, I focus on my at-bats so I cannot see everything, but after the game ends, looking at the stands from afar, it is truly magnificent." He candidly added, "In the past, I sometimes wondered 'why do they do that,' but seeing it in person made me realize, 'Ah, this is why they do it.'"

He also emphasized the synergistic effect that fans' sincere support, such as matching dress codes, has on the team. Kim Do-young stated emphatically, "It is truly an incredible source of motivation for the players." He continued, "It seems fans are supporting us not just by watching baseball, but with the mindset that 'we are also playing in the game on the field.' Seeing such scenes gives the players a tremendous sense of pride and confidence."

KIA, which caught its breath due to the rain postponement, aims to seize the initiative in Game 1 on the 26th. Regarding variables for this, Kim Do-young said, "When I rest, my body tends to 'reset,' so I came out during autonomous training as well to keep moving." He firmly declared his resolve, adding, "In a short series, individual statistics or home run races are not important at all. It is perfect if the team wins, no matter what. We will maintain our focus until the end and repay the fans' support with a victory."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original