KIA Tigers Take Their First Step Toward V13! A Complete Guide to the Spectacular Events at the Home Opening Series
The day baseball fans have been waiting for is almost here. From April 3rd to 5th, Gwangju-KIA Champions Field will transform into a vibrant festival ground under the slogan 'V13urn Again.' This home opening series, filled with the hope for a 13th championship, truly marks the starting line for the KIA Tigers as they go 'all in' with passion once more.
Star-Studded Ceremonial First Pitch & First Swing Lineup at Champions Field
Without a doubt, the highlight of this series is the impressive lineup for the ceremonial first pitch and first swing. According to team insiders, the final touches are being made to invite some 'superfans' who are making waves in their respective fields to take the mound. On opening day, April 3rd, actors Bae Yoo-ram and Lee Je-hoon will handle the first pitch and first swing duties. This marks the long-awaited debut at Champions Field for the pair, after their appearance was unfortunately rained out last year. On April 4th, former short track speed skating gold medalist Kim A-lang will step up for the first pitch, bringing her signature bright energy to the crowd. Then, on the final day, April 5th, actor Kim Eui-sung, who proudly calls himself a fan of the team for over 40 years since its inception, will close out the series. Having shared that this experience "feels like a dream," he's sure to create unforgettable memories for the fans in attendance.
V13urn Again: A Full Lineup of Events Brimming with Winning Spirit
Inside and outside the stadium, the atmosphere will be charged with the energy of '13' and the pursuit of victory. Based on local reports, everything is set, from a medley of cheering songs performed by the 25-member marching band 'Crown' to a celebratory stage by the talented band 'Touched.' A standout moment will be the team's entrance, featuring a super-special parade of 13 Kia EV lineup vehicles circling the field—a powerful display of determination perfectly aligned with this season's catchphrase and theme.
And that's not all. Throughout the stadium grounds, banners featuring the 12 previous championship emblems will be displayed, along with street flags, all designed to heighten the festive spirit. There will also be an event showcasing fan photos posted on social media, transformed into title images on the big screen. After each game, regardless of the outcome, a 'post-game victory celebration' with the players will take place. Following the game on April 3rd, singer Lee Bo-ram will join the festivities, adding to the electric atmosphere.
Capturing the Moment: The 2026 KIA Tigers Right Now
Of course, the true excitement of baseball unfolds on the field. The KIA Tigers, led by manager Lee Bum-ho, are currently in the thick of a tight race early in the season. Looking at their performance so far, the lineup showcases its signature explosive offense with a team batting average over .300. However, the team is working on refining their earned run average on the mound. But as any baseball fan knows, Champions Field itself is both a wild card and a source of strength. The journey toward V13 has only just begun.
Another Fun Part of the Ballpark Experience: Meet Lecce & Friends
Meanwhile, fans visiting Champions Field this year have another 'must-have' item to look out for: the 'Lecce & Friends' collaboration merchandise with the KBO. The Lecce & Friends x KBO Lecce Plush Doll Keychain series is back, featuring the beloved victory fairy 'Lecce' and cheerleader 'Bibi' from last year's popular Season 1, now sporting new and diverse looks. With over 110 items ranging from plush dolls and keychains to crossbody bags, the lineup itself offers a shopping experience. Along with special design tickets for the opening series, snagging the Lecce & Friends x KBO Lecce Plush Doll Keychain KIA Tigers edition is another highlight fans won't want to miss this season.
- Dates: April 3 (Fri) – April 5 (Sun), 2026
- Location: Gwangju-KIA Champions Field
- Opponent: NC Dinos
- Theme: V13urn AGAIN (Once More, With Passion)
- Special Events: Star-Studded First Pitch/First Swing Lineup, Team EV9 Parade, Post-Game Victory Celebration, Limited Edition Lecce & Friends Merchandise Sale
Tickets go on sale seven days before each game, starting March 27th at 11:00 AM through the team's official app and Ticketlink. You could be the one holding the special design ticket that commemorates the opening series.