Hyeseong Kim’s recent signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers marks a monumental step in his young but already electrifying baseball career. The Korean infielder, widely considered one of the brightest international prospects in years, officially chose the Dodgers over several MLB teams, including their regional rivals, the Los Angeles Angels. His decision sent a clear message about his ambitions and his vision for the future—both as a player and as a competitor on the game’s grandest stage.
Speaking candidly about his choice, Kim offered insight into a decision rooted in more than just money or convenience. “I chose the Dodgers because of their winning culture, their history with international players, and the way they approached me—not just as an asset, but as someone they truly wanted to develop,” Kim said through a translator during his introductory press conference. For many, it wasn’t a surprise that the Dodgers had been aggressive in their pursuit. But for Kim, the choice went deeper than mere headlines or prestige.
The Dodgers have cultivated a unique reputation when it comes to nurturing international talent. From Hyun-Jin Ryu to Kenta Maeda and now Shohei Ohtani, the franchise has built a bridge to Asian baseball that feels authentic, sustained, and respectful. That mattered to Kim. While the Angels also have experience working with Asian stars—most notably with Ohtani before he moved across town—Kim saw a clear distinction in how the two organizations are structured and how they perform on the field.
“It’s not just about getting to the big leagues,” Kim said. “It’s about staying there, getting better every year, and playing meaningful baseball. The Dodgers have done that, and it’s something I want to be part of.” His words were measured, but his conviction was evident. For a young man who had offers from multiple franchises, including teams from the East Coast, the Midwest, and other strong contenders, Kim’s decision was equal parts emotional and strategic.
The Dodgers, known for their data-driven approach, world-class facilities, and relentless commitment to winning, offered a level of infrastructure and ambition that matched Kim’s aspirations. He wasn’t just looking for a place to play—he was looking for a place to grow. And in Los Angeles, he saw a city and a team that would support both his personal and professional journey.
Interestingly, the decision to pick the Dodgers over the Angels was also influenced by trajectory. While the Angels boast talent, their postseason struggles and inconsistency have created a sense of uncertainty. The Dodgers, by contrast, are perennial contenders. “I’ve always dreamed of playing in the playoffs, playing under the brightest lights,” Kim said. “And when I thought about October baseball, I saw myself in Dodger blue.”
Beyond the competitive element, the Dodgers also extended a thoughtful cultural embrace that impressed Kim and his family. From providing Korean-speaking staff and dietary accommodations to initiating early conversations about long-term development plans, the franchise made it clear that Kim wasn’t just another signing. He was an investment, a partner, and potentially a future face of the team.
Kim’s arrival has stirred immense excitement in both Los Angeles and South Korea. His professional journey began in the KBO, where he dazzled scouts with his speed, defensive range, and high-contact swing. Despite his youth, he’s already drawn comparisons to Korean legends like Jung-ho Kang and Ha-seong Kim. What set Hyeseong apart, however, was his maturity—both on the field and in how he handled the spotlight.
He revealed that choosing the Dodgers was also about what kind of player he ultimately wants to become. “I admire players like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. I want to learn from them. I want to play beside them. That kind of environment can’t be found everywhere.” He didn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenge of adjusting to MLB pitching, the travel schedule, or the pressure of high expectations. Instead, he welcomed it.
“The pressure means people believe in me,” Kim said. “That’s something I’m grateful for, not afraid of.” His confidence isn’t cocky—it’s calm, grounded, and indicative of a player who has prepared for this moment not just physically but mentally.
As for the fans, Kim expressed excitement about joining a global franchise with a passionate following. “Dodger Stadium is one of the most famous places in the world. I remember watching games there on TV as a kid, dreaming of what it would feel like to step onto that field. Now I get to make that dream real.” He added that he’s already begun learning more English and is eager to connect with fans in both languages.
Choosing to play in a city with a rich Korean-American community was also meaningful. While his professional goals guided the decision, the opportunity to represent and inspire a local and international fan base added another layer of importance. “It’s special to me that there are Korean families in L.A. who can come to the ballpark and see someone who looks like them, who speaks their language, playing on one of the best teams in the world. That’s something I take seriously.”
The Dodgers’ front office made no secret of their excitement in acquiring Kim. President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman praised Kim’s work ethic, character, and upside, calling him “an incredibly dynamic young player who has the chance to impact the game in all phases.” The Dodgers plan to slowly integrate Kim into the major league roster, possibly giving him time in Triple-A to adjust, but the belief is that he will be MLB-ready sooner rather than later.
Hyeseong Kim’s story is about more than just baseball. It’s about identity, ambition, and the delicate balancing act between honoring one’s roots and embracing new opportunities. His decision to join the Dodgers over the Angels was made thoughtfully, informed by years of dreaming and months of conversations. It was about fit—not just on the diamond but within an organization that sees him as part of their future core.
The Angels, while gracious in their recruitment efforts, couldn’t offer what Kim ultimately wanted: a clearly defined path to excellence, a stable and successful culture, and the chance to play for a team that is always contending for championships. For someone as driven as Kim, those elements weren’t luxuries—they were necessities.
Now, as he begins this new chapter, all eyes will be on how quickly he adapts and what kind of impact he can make. With his tools, temperament, and team-first mentality, it’s not hard to imagine him becoming a fan favorite quickly. The Dodgers have built a roster full of stars, but they’ve also shown they value balance, chemistry, and hard-nosed play. In Hyeseong Kim, they’ve added a player who embodies all of that—and more.
In the end, Kim’s decision wasn’t just about geography or money. It was about alignment: between his vision and the team’s, his values and the culture, his goals and the Dodgers’ blueprint for success. “I want to be great,” he said. “And I believe the Dodgers will help me get there.” With that, a new era begins—one where Hyeseong Kim looks to carve his name into the fabric of one of baseball’s most storied franchises.
