Samsung's Choi Hyoung-woo becomes first KBO player to reach 2,700 hits

Samsung Lions' veteran slugger Choi Hyoung-woo etched his name in baseball history on August 18, 2026, becoming the first player in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) League to achieve 2,700 career hits. The milestone came during a home game against the SSG Landers at Daegu Samsung Lions Park.

Choi, batting cleanup as the designated hitter, reached the historic mark with a home run in the eighth inning. This blast, his 14th of the season, broke a 1-1 tie and secured a lead for his team. It was a moment of redemption after earlier plate appearances resulted in a groundout, a walk, and a double play.

With this hit, Choi's career total climbed to 2,700, adding to his already impressive legacy. Since his debut with the Samsung Lions in 2002, he has consistently accumulated hits over 21 seasons, including a remarkable streak of 13 consecutive seasons with over 100 hits starting in 2008. Even in his 40s, Choi continues to perform at a high level, boasting a .317 batting average with 113 hits, 13 home runs, and 75 RBIs in 100 games prior to this milestone.

This achievement follows his surpassing 2,600 hits in April and overtaking Son Ah-seop to become the KBO's all-time hits leader in May. Choi also broke the 4,600 total bases record on the same day, further solidifying his status as one of the league's greatest players.

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He hit a home run in the eighth inning, driving in his 14th home run of the season and the first hit in KBO League history.