A South Korean baseball player who won the 2000 Olympic gold medal and holds multiple Korean Series championships and MVP awards. Known for his exceptional pitching skills and dominance in the Korean professional baseball league.
Lee Byungkyu is a South Korean retired baseball player, renowned for his impressive 17-season stint with the LG Twins of the KBO League, and three seasons with the Chunichi Dragons of Nippon Professional Baseball. He is also a celebrated Olympian, having represented South Korea in the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics.
Lee's remarkable career in baseball began in 1997, when he joined the LG Twins, a stalwart team in the KBO League. Over the years, he solidified his position as an exceptional outfielder, earning the respect of his peers and adoration of fans. His impressive skills on the field led to his selection in the South Korean national team, which competed in the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics.
In the 1996 Olympics, Lee was part of the South Korean team that finished eighth in the tournament. However, it was in the 2000 Olympics that he won the bronze medal, a momentous achievement for the team and the country.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to baseball, Lee's number 9 was retired on July 9, 2017, in a ceremony held before and after the game against the Hanwha Eagles. This honor is a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
Lee Byungkyu's legacy in baseball is undeniable. His dedication, perseverance, and exceptional skills have inspired generations of baseball players in South Korea and beyond. As a celebrated athlete, he has cemented his place in the annals of South Korean sports history.
39 Years Old
South Korea's first player to transition from the Korean Baseball Organization to MLB, known for his exceptional pitching skills and Cy Young Award-winning season.
47 Years Old
A power-hitting first baseman who played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Florida Marlins, known for his impressive home run displays in the early 2000s.
