Star spiker Heo Su-bong has signed a groundbreaking three-year contract worth 13 billion won with Hyundai Capital, marking the highest free agency deal in men’s V-League history. The agreement includes 8 billion won in guaranteed base salary and up to 5 billion won in performance incentives.
From Bottom Team to League Powerhouse
Hyundai Capital outbid competitors to bring back Heo Su-bong, who previously revitalized GS Caltex from the league’s basement. Despite interest from multiple teams, including those prioritizing foreign talent, Hyundai Capital prioritized the ace spiker. A club official stated, “We offered the highest possible amount to Heo Su-bong. Even compared to Hwang Taek-ui’s deal, we adjusted the amount and ensured solid incentives.”
The official added, “Five billion won isn’t excessive for top incentives. Even without them, the offer was substantial enough to secure the player.”
Strategic Roster Building
Hyundai Capital bolstered its coaching staff with a total of 13 billion won across 13 players, blending eight domestic signings with five foreign additions. This move underscores their ambition to dominate, especially after leading the regular season standings alongside setter Leo and opposite Shin Ho-jin.
League-wide, men’s teams invested heavily in aces and foreigners. Korean Air retained key players like Jo Jae-young and secured outside hitters, while Hyundai Capital’s total contributions hit a record high. GS Caltex, however, struggled to match offers, losing Heo despite his pivotal role in their turnaround.
Comparison with Other Deals
Korean Air’s Hwang Taek-ui signed for 12 billion won (9 billion base + 3 billion incentives), but Heo Su-bong surpassed it. Hyundai Capital also re-signed Hwang Sung-bin for 6 billion won, focusing on core players over new foreign recruits like Hasung-woo (Korean Air) and Lee Min-gyu (OK Financial Group).
OK Financial Group invested 6 billion won in Lee Min-gyu but fell short against Hyundai Capital’s persistence. With young talents like Park Tae-seong (25) and Park In-woo (23), they aim to build depth, yet prioritize aces and foreigners for immediate impact.
League Trends and Future Outlook
Teams like Korean Air, Woori Card, and Samsung Fire retained internal FAs while chasing aces and internationals. Seven clubs focused on maximizing ace power, with two securing major Asian aces. As the 2027-2028 season approaches, domestic signings could reach 20% of team payrolls, capping at around 10.42 billion won per squad.
Heo Su-bong’s deal sets a benchmark, emphasizing value in proven talent amid rising foreign investments and competitive bidding.
