S. Korea Baseball Team Leaves for Asian Games, Eyes 5th Straight Gold

The national baseball team of Korea landed in Nagoya, Japan, on Friday, three days prior to aiming for their fifth straight gold medal at the Asian Games. Manager Ryu Ji-hyun and his players touched down at Chubu Centrair International Airport in Tokoname, situated 30 kilometers south of Nagoya, just before 1 p.m. Friday.

Comprised of elite players from the top domestic league, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), Korea is considered a formidable competitor with a high chance of securing the gold. Ryu Ji-hyun, the team's manager, expressed his confidence during a press conference at the airport, stating, "Representing the country carries a lot of weight and responsibility. Our process has been smooth and I think the outcome will be good, too."

Upon arrival, Ryu conveyed a mix of excitement and nervousness, as reflected in the cheerful expressions of his players. He remarked, "After seeing cheerful looks on the faces of my players, I am feeling optimistic."

Korea's Group B match against Chinese Taipei is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Baseball Stadium in Okazaki, located about 50 kilometers southeast of Nagoya. The subsequent game against Hong Kong is set for 6:30 p.m. on the following Tuesday at Toyohashi Municipal Baseball Stadium in Toyohashi, around 85 kilometers away.