MLB to Collaborate With Korean Baseball League, KBO to Boost Baseball’s Global Identity

Major League Baseball (MLB) has been the home to baseball for over a century. Though baseball is yet to get its global identity, it is already a very popular game in a few countries, like Japan and South Korea.

In America, baseball is considered the best pastime, given it takes too much time compared to an NBA or NFL game. But, in South Korea, the scenario is completely different. Founded in 1982, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) has been a success story in South Korea.

Now, to expand the reach of the game, MLB and KBO are all set to collaborate on some intriguing ideas. Notably, if these two leagues come together, baseball will only grow, especially in Asian countries. Because, except for Japan and South Korea, not a single country is familiar with baseball.

MLB to host Opening Day in South Korea?

Baseball’s growth rate and popularity have been massive in recent years in South Korea. Starting with just six teams, the KBO has become a ten-team tournament in just 40 years. And if things go their way, the KBO will only grow in the future.

Taking this into account, MLB is reportedly considering a tie-up with the KBO. Per Front Office Sports, both leagues are eyeing a cross-promotional partnership. Among the many ideas, MLB might host its opening day in South Korea, while South Korea will get a chance to host its opening day in the U.S.

Not only the opening day games but KBO and MLB will also clash for an All-Star game and exhibition games. Taking to Twitter, Front Office Sports shared the same.

According to Jeeho Yoo, a KBO insider, MLB senior VP of International Affairs Jim Small, and KBO Commissioner Heo Koo-youn discussed the reported partnership between the two leagues.

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“KBO Commissioner Heo Koo-youn met with MLB senior VP of international affairs, Jim Small, in Seoul on Wednesday. Among things discussed: Holding MLB Opening Day games in Korea & KBO Opening Day games in the U.S.,” Jeeho tweeted.

Given the growth and popularity of baseball in Asian countries, how do you rate this partnership?