KIA Tigers Take the 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 finally here. From April 3rd to 5th, Gwangju-KIA Champions Field will transform into a vibrant festival ground under the slogan 'V13urn Again' for three days. This home opening series, carrying the aspiration for a 13th championship, is literally the starting line for the KIA Tigers as they go all in, 'once again, with fervour.'
A-List Ceremonial First Pitch & Batting Lineup to Grace Champions Field
Undoubtedly, the biggest highlight of this series is the impressive lineup for the ceremonial first pitch and batting. According to sources within and around the club, the final touches are being made to invite 'die-hard' fans who are making waves in their respective fields to the mound. On opening day, the 3rd, actors Bae Yoo-ram and Lee Je-hoon will take the mound and the batter's box, respectively. This marks the long-awaited Champions Field debut for them, which was unfortunately rained out last year. On the 4th, former short track speed skating gold medallist Kim A-lang will take the mound, bringing her signature bright energy. Then, on the final day, the 5th, the finale will be led by actor Kim Eui-sung, a self-proclaimed fan of the team for over 40 years, since its inception. Having expressed that it feels 'like a dream,' he's sure to create unforgettable memories for the fans in attendance.
V13urn Again: A Full Lineup of Events Charged with Winning Spirit
The stadium and its surroundings are set to be filled with the number '13' and a spirit of victory. Combining information from local sources, preparations are complete, starting with a cheer song medley by the 25-member marching band 'Crown' and continuing with a celebratory performance by the talented band 'Touched.' A particularly special feature will be the ultra-premium player parade, where 13 Kia EV line vehicles will circle the ground. This scene perfectly embodies the team's will to win, aligning with this season's catchphrase and theme.
And that's not all. Throughout the stadium, flags and street banners featuring the 12 previous championship emblems will be installed to elevate the festive atmosphere. Additionally, there will be an event showcasing fan-taken photos posted on social media as video board title images. After each game, regardless of the outcome, there will be a 'post-game fan celebration' with the players, and after the game on the 3rd, singer Lee Bo-ram will join to further amp up the excitement.
Capturing the Moment: The 2026 KIA Tigers Today
Of course, the true excitement of baseball lies on the field. The KIA Tigers, led by manager Beom-ho Lee, are in a fierce battle for the top spot early in the season. Looking at their performance so far, the batting lineup showcases their characteristic explosive offence with a team batting average over .300, but the team does have the task of refining their earned run average on the mound. However, as any baseball fan knows, Champions Field itself is a unique variable and a source of strength in its own right. The journey towards V13 has only just begun.
Another Layer of Fun at the Ballpark: Meet Lecce & Friends
Meanwhile, fans visiting Champions Field this year have another 'must-have' item. It's the 'Lecce & Friends' merchandise, created in collaboration with the KBO. In particular, the Lecce & Friends x KBO Strongest Lecce Plush Doll Keychain series returns with a more vibrant transformation of the popular victory fairy 'Lecce' and cheerleader 'Bibi' characters from last year's Season 1. With over 110 items ranging from plush dolls and keychains to crossbody bags, the lineup itself offers a 'shopping delight.' Along with special design tickets exclusive to the opening series, the fun of grabbing the Lecce & Friends x KBO Strongest Lecce Plush Doll Keychain KIA Tigers edition is another key point not to be missed this season.
- Schedule: April 3 (Fri) – April 5 (Sun), 2026
- Venue: Gwangju-KIA Champions Field
- Opponent: NC Dinos
- Theme: V13urn AGAIN
- Special Events: A-list ceremonial first pitch & batting lineup, player EV9 parade, post-game fan celebrations, limited edition Lecce & Friends merchandise sales
Tickets go on sale starting March 27th at 11:00 AM, seven days before the games, via the official club app and Ticketlink. You could be the one to own the special design ticket that marks the opening series.