As the KBO League enters its second half, players are making headlines with remarkable achievements. Kim Hyun-soo of the KT Wiz and Choi Jeong of the SSG Landers are among those setting new records.
Why it matters: The 2026 KBO season has seen players achieving exceptional milestones, highlighting their talent and dedication. These records celebrate individual success and draw attention to the growing competitiveness of the league.
Kim Hyun-soo reached the milestone of 100 hits for the season on July 18, becoming one of only eight players to do so in 2026.
This achievement marks Kim's 17th consecutive season with over 100 hits, solidifying his status as one of the league's all-time greats.
Choi Jeong hit his 20th home run on July 16, marking the 11th consecutive season he has achieved at least 20 home runs.
Driving the news: Kim Hyun-soo's performance against the LG Twins was a standout moment. He recorded two hits in that game, pushing his season total to 100. This accomplishment places him in elite company, as he continues to break records year after year.
Kim first surpassed the 100-hit mark in 2008 when he played for the Doosan Bears, recording 168 hits that season.
Since his time in Major League Baseball from 2016 to 2017, he has returned to the KBO and maintained his impressive hitting streak.
His career total now stands at 2,632 hits, ranking him third all-time in the KBO.
The big picture: Choi Jeong's consistency is equally impressive. With 538 career home runs, he is the only player in KBO history to surpass 500 home runs. He is currently on track to join the exclusive 550-home run club if he can hit 12 more before the season ends.
Choi's recent performance has secured his legacy and positioned him to challenge for even greater milestones in the coming years.
He leads the league with 1,560 career runs scored and is closing in on the 1,600-run milestone.
Choi has a contract that extends until 2028, giving him ample opportunity to reach the 600-home run mark.
What they're saying: Analysts and fans alike are in awe of the records being set this season. Many believe these achievements will inspire the next generation of KBO players.
“Kim and Choi are redefining what it means to be a successful player in this league,” said a KBO analyst. “Their consistency over the years is something we may never see again.”
Fans are rallying behind both players, recognizing their contributions to the sport and the excitement they bring to each game.
By the numbers: The statistics from this season highlight the exceptional performances of several players.
Kim Hyun-soo: 100 hits in 2026, batting average of .286.
Choi Jeong: 20 home runs this season, 538 career home runs.
Choi is 17 hits away from becoming the first player in KBO history to reach 2,700 career hits.
State of play: The competition in the KBO is heating up, with several players vying for record-breaking achievements as the season progresses.
Yang Hyun-jong of the KIA Tigers is aiming for his 12th consecutive season with over 100 strikeouts, having already recorded 49 this year.
Kim Jin-sung of the LG Twins is just two holds away from becoming the all-time leader in holds.
Veteran catcher Kang Min-ho is on the verge of playing in his 2,600th game if he appears in 42 more matches.
What's next: As the season continues, fans can expect more thrilling moments and potential record-breaking performances from KBO stars.
Upcoming matchups will see Kim Hyun-soo and Choi Jeong continue to chase their respective milestones.
SSG Landers and KT Wiz will face off again soon, providing another opportunity for these players to shine.
With the playoffs approaching, every game counts more than ever, raising the stakes for all teams involved.