Kim Ha-seong's Slip and Injury Confirmed; Official Statement from South Korea National Baseball Team

Kim Ha-seong, seen as the main shortstop of South Korea's national team, was confirmed today to need surgery for a finger injury, leading to an estimated 4 to 5 months of recovery. Consequently, he will be unable to participate in this year's World Baseball Classic (WBC) for South Korea. The team's management has formally addressed this unexpected situation.

Having continuously competed in the Major Leagues in recent years, Kim Ha-seong entered free agency after last season. Although he was expected to secure a multi-year deal, he ultimately signed a one-year contract worth $20 million with the Atlanta Braves, aiming to prove his worth in the new season and pursue a long-term contract.

However, the Braves announced today that Kim Ha-seong slipped on an icy surface while in South Korea last week, resulting in a torn tendon in his right middle finger. He has returned to the U.S. for surgery and is expected to require 4 to 5 months for recovery. This means he will miss this year's Major League spring training and will not be able to represent South Korea in the Classic starting in early March.

South Korea’s head coach, Ryu Ji-hyun, previously stated that the team planned to build their infield around Kim Ha-seong for this Classic. This unexpected injury now forces a tactical adjustment.

A source coordinating the national team’s preparations in Saipan revealed that Ryu Ji-hyun has been fully informed of Kim Ha-seong’s injury details, and his absence is now confirmed. The coaching staff will immediately begin implementing contingency plans, focusing on who will take over as the team’s starting shortstop.