KBL to Review School Violence Records in Strengthened Rookie Draft Screening

The Korean Basketball League will require every applicant for this year’s rookie draft to submit a school record, including information that could reveal a history of school violence.

The KBL will accept applications for the 2026 draft from Sept. 1 through 21. The league said it would use the records to conduct a closer review of eligibility and identify reasons an applicant could be disqualified.

Eligible applicants include South Korean nationals who have never been selected by a KBL club or signed a player contract, as well as current or prospective graduates of four-year universities, high schools and equivalent programs. Players of foreign nationality may apply only if they have been registered with the Korea Basketball Association for at least five years. After being selected, they must acquire South Korean citizenship within two seasons, excluding any agreed period.

Nontraditional applicants will undergo document screening and a practical test before the league makes a final decision on participation. The draft combine will take place on Oct. 28 at the KBL Center in Seoul’s Gangnam district. The draft-order lottery is scheduled for Nov. 9, while the tryout and draft will be held on Nov. 20 at Jamsil Students’ Gymnasium in Seoul.