Stories of international talent leaving their stamp on Major League Baseball (MLB) are motivating and fascinating. One such story is Hyeseong Kim, a South Korean infielder whose path from the KBO League to MLB has drawn notice and respect. The arrival of a renowned international star to Chavez Ravine is not an average signing. Instead, it is a bridge across continents constructed on talent and potential. Who acquired him?
The franchise is famous not only for its rich past and devoted following but also for its readiness to invest in top-tier talent. It has looked across the Pacific. And this time, its scouting ability has found a treasure from Korea’s competitive baseball scene. The LA Dodgers have once again crossed oceans to strengthen their bullpen.
The Dodgers’ aggressive move for Kim emphasizes a sharp awareness that outstanding talent recognizes no frontiers. The expectation now grows: How will this thrilling new chapter play out for Kim and the many Dodger heads?
Who is Hyeseong Kim? What is his ethnicity? Everything you need to know about the new Los Angeles Dodgers star
Hyeseong Kim was born on January 27, 1999, in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, and his baseball talent was visible from an early age. Goyang is a city recognized for its vibrant culture and strong emphasis on athletics. Growing up in this setting, Kim was exposed to the enthusiasm for baseball, which ultimately helped him develop an interest in the sport.
Hyeseong Kim attended one of South Korea’s famous high schools for aspiring athletes, where he improved his baseball skills and caught the eye of coaches and scouts. During these years, his on-field performance was outstanding. With consistency, he became one of the best young players in the nation.
Starting with the Nexen Heroes in the KBO League, Kim played from 2017 to 2024. Over 953 games, he hit .304 with 37 home runs, 386 RBIs, and 211 stolen bases. His defensive skills also earned him four KBO Golden Glove Awards, making him the only player to win the prize at both shortstop and second base.
After seeing his promise, the Los Angeles Dodgers signed Kim to a three-year, $12.5 million contract in January 2025; options could prolong the deal and raise its value to $22 million. A move that can be a turning point for his career. After his acquisition, when asked about his favorite teams and players, he answered without a pause.
Hyeseong Kim’s favorite players are baseball legends. He admires Dong-yeo Sun, a dominant pitcher. Kim considers Min-ho Kong a top catcher due to his strategic and defensive skills. Kim remembers first baseman Byung-ho Park’s tremendous hitting and consistency. Jeong Keun-woo’s agility, fast reflexes at second base, and Lee Jong-beom’s shortstop talents set the bar for Kim in the middle infield. At third base, Choi Jeong’s offensive strength and defensive reliability resonate with Kim’s love for well-rounded athletes.
Kim’s ideal squad includes Lee Jung-hoo, Park Kun-woo, and Park Hae-min, who are fast, consistently field well, and bat. He values players who combine talent and effort.
Anticipation for Kim’s first Major League Baseball game was high; he first appeared on May 3, 2025, following a Triple-A Oklahoma City recall. Given injuries inside the club, his agility and adaptability have greatly benefited the Dodgers.
For the Dodgers, a problem is being solved: an injury! Instead of looking outside, the Dodgers pick the internal options. And why not? A talent like this should never be wasted. Tommy Edman was placed on the 10-day IL because of right ankle inflammation. After missing back-to-back games, Edman’s IL stay was backdated to April 30.
Though veteran Chris Taylor took the second base position, Kim was not in the starting lineup for Saturday night’s game against the Atlanta Braves despite his promotion. From a successful stay in South Korea’s KBO League to the MLB, Kim’s call-up represents a significant turning point in his career. As the Dodgers negotiate the season, his quickness and defensive abilities are anticipated to benefit greatly.
Is Hyeseong Kim Christian? Know more about his religion
As of now, there is no publicly accessible data that verifies Hyeseong Kim’s religious beliefs or ties. He has not publicly spoken on his religion, and no official records or interviews clarify this facet of his private life.
A notable percentage of South Koreans call themselves non-religious. A 2023 South Korean poll found that more than 60% of those surveyed had no religious affiliation; about 20% were Christians, and 16% were Buddhists.
Given this background, it’s reasonable to think Kim might not follow a particular religious practice. Nevertheless, any judgments regarding his ideas would be conjectural without clear verification from Kim himself.
But apart from all that, would you like to share how excited were you when Kim first appeared on the field? We are waiting…
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