YISS Heads to the Ballpark to Enjoy Korean Baseball

The average length of a baseball game is about three hours. However, the lively and enthusiastic fan culture found at Korean baseball games makes the time fly by. About 200 members of the YISS community experienced this firsthand at the Doosan Bears versus LG Twins at Jamsil Stadium on Saturday, April 13. 

Different from other countries, baseball fans in Korea actively participate throughout the game with organized cheers, chants, and rhythmic clapping. Each player has their own cheer, and the energetic cheering squads, which include drummers and dancers, ensure that there is constant chanting. Those in the YISS section joined in the fun by waving their flags, clapping, chanting, and doing the motions of the various cheers to celebrate and encourage the players. 

Led by the YISS Dads’ Club Representative Mark Mendes, many YISS students, parents, teachers, and staff came prepared in their team jerseys with flags and lots of food and drinks in hand. With plenty of food options inside and outside the ballpark, staying well-fed and hydrated was easy and delicious.

After the fourth inning, the Doosan Bears recognized YISS with a special welcome message on the scoreboard. From the first pitch to the last out, the upbeat music and energy of the cheering squads kept the atmosphere lively and fun. 

You are missing out if you have never been to a Korean baseball game. Stay tuned for another chance to join the YISS Dads’ Club at their annual baseball event next spring. Special thanks to Mark Mendes of the YISS Dads’ Club and Christine Lee, PTO President, for organizing this fabulous community event.