KBO player Austin Dean welcomes game suspension due to extreme heat
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- LG Twins foreign player Austin Dean expressed relief over the league's decision to suspend games due to extreme heat.
- Dean described the recent two weeks as the hottest he has experienced in Korea.
- The KBO League has been struggling with unprecedented heatwaves.
Austin Dean, a foreign player for the KBO's LG Twins, openly shared his relief regarding the league's decision to postpone games amid an unprecedented heatwave. Dean, who has played in Korea for four years, described the recent weather conditions as the most intense he has ever encountered.
"It was incredibly hot for the past two weeks. I think it's the hottest I've ever experienced living in Korea," Dean stated in an interview following a game against the Kiwoom Heroes on August 13. The extreme temperatures have significantly impacted players and the league's schedule.
The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) has faced challenges in maintaining its regular schedule due to the persistent and severe heat. The decision to suspend games, though disruptive, was welcomed by players like Dean who are struggling with the physically demanding conditions. This year's summer has seen record-breaking temperatures across South Korea, affecting various aspects of daily life and outdoor activities.
The league's response highlights the growing concerns about athlete safety and well-being during extreme weather events. As climate change contributes to more frequent and intense heatwaves, sports organizations worldwide are increasingly re-evaluating their protocols for managing such conditions.
It was incredibly hot for the past two weeks. I think it's the hottest I've ever experienced living in Korea.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.