- By Srishti Pandey
- Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
BTS Jhope made a memorable public appearance on October 23, 2024, as he threw the first pitch at the rescheduled Game 2 of the Korean Series at Gwangju KIA Champions Field. Initially slated to take place on October 22, the game was delayed due to heavy rainfall, but Jhope’s much-anticipated appearance finally happened, much to the excitement of ARMYs.
The event holds special significance for Jhope, as this marks his first official public outing since being discharged from the military on October 17. His deep connection to Gwangju, his hometown, was further emphasized during the event. Jhope has long shown his love for the city and the KIA Tigers, even referencing it in BTS’ song Ma City, where he raps, “I’m Jeollanam-do Gwangju baby,” and “I put KIA in and start the engine and bounce like crazy.” The moment was not just about baseball but a celebration of his roots.
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#jhope makes his first official appearance following his military discharge, by throwing the ceremonial first pitch at the 2024 Korean Series baseball championship! 👏🧢🥇⚾️🇰🇷🏆🔥👑💜 #jhopeFirstPitchpic.twitter.com/Lxn8BCI2CF pic.twitter.com/xZuTnaoGPi
— World Music Awards (@WORLDMUSICAWARD) October 23, 2024
J-HOPE KIA FIRST PITCHER!!! pic.twitter.com/OEcxCh6Bjt
— faye (@O613file) October 23, 2024
HOSEOK IS GOOD AT EVERYTHING LITERALLY EVERYTHINGGGGG 🤯
— 𝓱𝓸𝓹𝓮 (@MapOfTheHoseok) October 23, 2024
J-HOPE AT KOREA SERIES 2024
J-HOPE X KIA TIGERS#jhopeAtKoreaSeries#jhopeOpeningPitch#jhopeFirstPitch #jhope
pic.twitter.com/zqDAtpfUZw
[📸 PHOTOS]#Jhope First Pitch for the 2nd game of Korea Series 2024 between Samsung Lions and KIA Tigers (5)#jhopeFirstPitch pic.twitter.com/XsZTKvfneo
— BTS PICS FOLDER 📁 (@btspicstwt_) October 23, 2024
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Jhope's role in throwing the first pitch is also a significant moment for BTS as a group. While Jungkook made a ceremonial appearance in Japan back in 2017, this marks the first time a BTS member has thrown a ceremonial pitch in South Korea. Fans, both locally and internationally, tuned in to witness the special moment, watching live broadcasts on TVING and Afreeca TV's SOOP platform.
this picture is so cute pleaseeee pic.twitter.com/7UR7X38fkC
— kei⁷ | HOTS ✮⋆˙ (@hobiroppi) October 23, 2024
Jhope’s presence was a highlight for KIA Tigers fans, who believe he could bring luck to their team, a role fans have affectionately dubbed as Seungyo or victory fairy. The ceremonial pitch adds a historic touch to the rescheduled game between the KIA Tigers and Samsung Lions, further building excitement for the ongoing Korean Series.
The game, with Jhope in the spotlight, offered fans a unique opportunity to celebrate both their favourite Kpop star and hometown pride. Fans are sure to treasure this iconic moment, which marked Jhope's return to the public stage after completing his military service.