Ahead of the 2026 Amami-Oshima spring camp, the KIA Tigers players gathered at Champions Field on January 18 for their annual profile photos. One figure immediately drew attention: veteran infielder Kim Sun-bin, 37. Compared to last season, Kim’s physique had transformed dramatically—“slim” was now the word that best described him. His movements, once described as awkward, now showed renewed agility, reflecting his determination for the new season.
Kim’s transformation signals more than a physical change—it reveals a sense of urgency. Despite winning the championship a few years ago, the Tigers endured a humiliating eighth-place finish last season. The team’s struggles were compounded when key players, including cleanup hitter Choi Hyung-woo and starting shortstop Park Chan-ho, left in free agency. With the roster weakened, the Tigers failed to rank among the top five contenders. Now, alongside teammate and captain Na Sung-bum, Kim is tasked with leading the team as one of its senior players.
Na Sung-bum described the mindset among the veterans: “We reflected a lot on last year’s performance. Even without saying it aloud, each of us, including myself, felt the weight of it. Sun-bin’s weight loss is a clear example of the commitment we need. I tried as well, but it’s not easy. The veterans must unite and lead this team.”
For Kim, this is a pivotal season. He is entering the final year of his three-year contract, which he signed for 3 billion Korean won. Delivering results is essential to secure a multi-year extension, and consistent playtime will be critical. Kim appeared in 119 games in 2024 and 116 games in 2025, with injuries limiting his appearances. To prove his value this year, he aims to play over 130 games, including key duties at second base.
Competition from younger players adds pressure. Yoon Do-hyun, a rising talent favored by Manager Lee Beom-ho, is targeting second base, and second-round draft pick Lee Ho-yeon also shows promise at the position. While Kim still holds the starting role, maintaining it is crucial—one reason he committed to a challenging weight loss regimen.
Excess weight had previously slowed Kim’s defensive agility. While his batting remained reliable, his defensive range suffered, contributing to recurring calf injuries. Shedding pounds is expected to restore his speed and defensive effectiveness. Kim will also benefit from rotation at the designated hitter spot, which opened after Choi Hyung-woo’s departure. Manager Lee plans to use both Na Sung-bum and Kim in this role strategically, allowing them to preserve stamina while maintaining full-time play.
Manager Lee praised Kim’s dedication: “I asked him specifically to lose weight, and he followed through. Even if someone is told to change, they have to commit mentally. He has, and his defensive form is back. With his calf no longer an issue, mixing in as a designated hitter will be no problem.”
Kim Sun-bin, a career .306 hitter, remains a potent offensive threat. He captured his first batting title in 2017 with a .307 average and has previously demonstrated the ability to dominate when training intensely. Ahead of the 2024 Korean Series, he posted a remarkable .508 average, earning MVP honors. Now, at the Amami Spring Camp, the “Little Giant” is preparing to make another powerful statement at the plate.
