South Korea’s Baseball Games Offer a Unique Experience for Fans
In the United States, Major League Baseball games are known for their moments of calm, punctuated by bursts of cheering when there’s action on the field. But in South Korea, a baseball game is a non-stop sensory overload. Each player has their own fight song, and cheering squads ensure that there is constant chanting and energy in the stadium.
Fans are encouraged to participate in cheering routines from the first pitch to the last out, following the lead of the cheerleaders, drummers, and the “cheer master.” The professionalization of cheering squads in the early 2000s has made baseball games in South Korea a unique and welcoming experience for fans looking to escape the pressures of everyday life.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres will experience this vibrant atmosphere when they open the MLB season in Seoul this week. Fans can expect to be immersed in the cheering culture, with customized fight songs for each player and energetic dance routines to accompany them.
The food at South Korean ballparks is also a highlight, with a variety of Korean street food offerings available for fans to enjoy. From deep-fried spicy rice cakes to braised pig’s trotters and chimaek (fried chicken and beer), there’s something for everyone to indulge in while watching the game.
One unique aspect of Korean fan culture is that fans stay until the very end of the game, regardless of the score. While American fans might leave early if their team is losing, Korean fans remain dedicated and supportive until the last out is made.
Overall, a baseball game in South Korea offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines sports, entertainment, and delicious food, making it a must-visit for any baseball fan looking for a unique and lively atmosphere.
