At the end of March, we got together with a group of over 50 other expats and went to the season opener of Busan's Lotte Giants baseball. The weather was just starting to warm up from a grueling winter, so we were excited to be spending some time outdoors. Since it was the opening game, there was a great deal of promotions and performances outside the stadium. I got to sit in the Giant's Mini Cooper. They use this car to drive relief pitchers to the mound during the game (it's pretty ridiculous).
I had to show some love for the home team.......
Since it was the opening game, it was very crowded (although behind home base looks a little empty because that is where the media and "special" people sit).
When going to a baseball game in Korea, it is important to stock up on food and beverages before going into the game. Not because the prices are high in the stadium (actually they are the same prices as any other Korean restaurant or convenience store), but because you are allowed to bring ANYTHING in besides glass bottles. You will see Korean's bring in whole pizzas or even a whole chicken and all put on plastic gloves before eating the greasy food.
The best part of the baseball games here are the crowds. At either end of the field are cheerleader looking girls on a stage with a hype man. They have choreographed dances and loud cheers and music.
My favorite part is the 7th inning stretch. Since you are aloud to bring anything in, they hand out orange plastic bags to try to encourage people to pick up their trash. Somehow, it has turned into a tradition to put the orange bag on your head. Here are a few pictures of the us during the 7th inning stretch.
All of the expects that went to this game
And to top off an incredibly fun day, we won with a walk-off pop fly in the 9th inning.......
(Bobby is quick to point out that 4 of our team's 6 runs were from walks, but I don't think anyone else was paying attention!)
Go Giants!
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