‘Korean Monster’ Ryu Hyun-jin First Korean Player to Reach 2,500 Career Strikeouts

Ryu Hyun-jin, known as the 'Korean Monster,' has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Korean pitcher to record 2,500 strikeouts across both Korean and U.S. professional baseball leagues. The 39-year-old pitcher reached this landmark on June 19 during a home game against Kiwoom Heroes.

In the second inning of the game, with his team trailing 0-1 and runners on first and third, Ryu struck out opposing batter Kwon Hyuk-bin on three pitches. This marked his 2,500th career strikeout. Ryu continued his strong performance in the inning, striking out three consecutive batters before exiting the mound. He received a congratulatory bouquet from Hanwha manager Kim Kyung-moon.

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He struck out the batter on three pitches, recording his 2,500th career strikeout.

Ryu's achievement is particularly significant as he is the first Korean player to reach this combined strikeout total. He joins an exclusive club of Korean pitchers who have achieved 2,000 strikeouts, including Yang Hyeon-jong (2,239), Song Jin-woo (2,048), and Kim Kwang-hyun (2,020). Ryu began his professional career with the Hanwha Eagles in 2006.

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Ryu Hyun-jin received a congratulatory bouquet from Hanwha manager Kim Kyung-moon.