Lotte Giants outfielder Kim Dong-hyuk shone brightly on June 8 at Seoul Jamsil Baseball Stadium, powering his team to a 4-2 victory over the Doosan Bears in a key 2025 season matchup.
Standout Performance Despite Injury
Starting in right field as the eighth batter, the 26-year-old Kim went 3-for-3 with one RBI, one stolen base, one walk, and two additional steals, delivering a one-man show. His contributions extended to defense, where he made a spectacular catch in the bottom of the ninth.
With a narrow 4-2 lead and a runner on first base with no outs, Doosan Bears’ Kim In-tae ripped a liner toward the right-field wall. Kim Dong-hyuk timed his jump perfectly, extending his arm to snag the ball and secure the win.
Despite nursing an injury that hampered his swings, Kim pushed through all nine innings, including a full relay throw after the catch and supplemental hustle plays.
Manager and Player Praise
Post-game, Lotte manager Park Jun-hyuk emphasized, “Dong-hyuk’s defense was decisive in today’s victory.”
Kim reflected on his effort: “I always thought my range as an outfielder was good, and my timing on hits was sharp. Even with another fielder nearby, my mental focus and preparation made the difference.”
Career Highlights and Team Impact
Kim Dong-hyuk, who joined Lotte after starring at Jeonju High School-Gangneung University in 2022 with a 2nd round, 7th pick (64rd overall), has transformed since his debut. Overcoming early struggles with hitting and fielding errors, he earned a starting role through consistent power-hitting and speed.
Through the 2024 season, he notched 54 games with 93 hits, two homers, 2.2 innings pitched? Wait, no: 93경기 타율 2할2푼5리 6타점 19도루 13도루? Actually, batting average .225 with 6 RBI, 19 stolen bases, 13 doubles in 93 games.
Heading into the 2026 spring camp, SSG Landers veteran pitcher Noh Kyung-eun noted Lotte’s depth: “They have players capable of carrying games on their backs with personal heroics.” Kim has emerged as a central figure in Lotte’s outfield.
Recent Controversy: Illegal Gambling Site Visit
On June 13, Lotte announced findings from player interviews and private life checks, confirming that outfielders Na Seung-yeop, Ko Sung-min, Kim Dong-hyuk, and Kim Se-min visited a venue classified as an illegal gambling operation.
CCTV footage from the online community showed the players engaging in PC gaming rather than gambling. Despite this, the visits prompted disciplinary action.
A Lotte official stated, “We take this seriously and will coordinate with the KBO and internal guidelines for appropriate penalties. Some players have already received warnings, and the club will handle results accordingly.”
Suspensions and Ongoing Probe
Four players, including Kim Dong-hyuk, face suspensions until June 14 following a joint investigation led by Kim Hae-guk. The probe addressed suspicions of drunk driving alongside the venue visits.
Despite the fallout, Kim’s pre-suspension performance highlighted his resilience. He expressed gratitude in an interview: “I’m thankful for the chance to contribute despite injury. Now healthy, I aim to deliver even better at-bats and make fans proud.”
His poise amid scrutiny underscores his value to the team as they navigate the incident.
