Legend Returns: Lee Jong-beom Leaves KT for 'Strongest Baseball'—What Awaits the New JTBC Season?

A Shocking Move: Lee Jong-beom Leaves KT Wiz Mid-Season

Did you know that Lee Jong-beom, one of Korea’s most celebrated baseball legends, left his coaching position at KT Wiz in the middle of the 2025 KBO season? His sudden exit sent shockwaves through the baseball community, especially since he was a key part of the team’s coaching staff. The official statement from KT Wiz confirmed that Lee requested to leave in order to join JTBC’s popular variety show ‘Strongest Baseball’ as its new manager. While the club respected his decision, it left fans divided—some praised his pursuit of new challenges, while others criticized the timing, given KT’s ongoing battle for playoff contention. This marks a rare instance in Korean pro sports where a coach leaves mid-season for a television project, highlighting the growing intersection between sports and entertainment in Korea.

Lee Jong-beom: From 'Son of the Wind' to Reality Show Manager

Lee Jong-beom is no ordinary figure in Korean baseball. Nicknamed ‘Son of the Wind,’ he was a superstar shortstop and outfielder for the legendary Haitai Tigers (now KIA Tigers), setting records like 84 stolen bases in a single season. After a stint in Japan’s NPB, he returned to Korea and built a legacy as one of the game’s most versatile and exciting players. Post-retirement, Lee transitioned to coaching roles at Hanwha Eagles, LG Twins, and most recently KT Wiz, where he was known for his sharp baseball IQ and player mentorship. Now, as he steps into the role of manager for ‘Strongest Baseball,’ fans are curious to see how his on-field instincts and leadership style will translate to the world of reality television.

What Is 'Strongest Baseball'? The Show That Blends Legends and Entertainment

‘Strongest Baseball’ is not just another sports variety show. Since its debut in 2022, it has brought together retired KBO stars to form a dream team, challenging amateur and semi-pro squads in intense, drama-filled matches. The format is a hybrid of reality TV and real baseball, mixing genuine competition with behind-the-scenes stories and playful banter. For the 2025 season, the show is evolving: Lee Jong-beom’s appointment as manager comes with a renewed mission—to support amateur baseball and youth development. The show plans to contribute funds based on team achievements, making it more than just entertainment but a force for grassroots baseball in Korea.

Star-Studded Lineup: Meet the 2025 'Strongest Baseball' Team

This year’s cast reads like a KBO Hall of Fame roster. Under Lee Jong-beom’s leadership, the team includes Hanwha Eagles’ franchise slugger Kim Tae-kyun, 21st-century pitching phenom Yoon Seok-min, clutch home run hero Na Ji-wan, and speedster Lee Dae-hyung. Familiar faces like Sim Soo-chang, Yoon Gil-hyun, Kwon Hyuk, Lee Hyun-seung, and others return, promising both skill and nostalgia. The mix of personalities—some fiery, some playful—ensures that every episode will be packed with both competitive spirit and entertainment value. For international fans, this is a rare chance to see Korean baseball legends in a new light, blending their athletic prowess with candid, unscripted moments.

Controversy and Cultural Insight: Why Lee’s Move Matters

Lee’s mid-season departure has sparked heated debates in Korea. Critics argue that leaving a pro team during the season for a TV show is unprofessional, while supporters say it reflects deeper issues with how coaches are treated and compensated in the KBO. The controversy also highlights the unique relationship between sports and entertainment in Korea, where variety shows can elevate athletes to celebrity status and influence broader cultural trends. For overseas fans, understanding this context is key: in Korea, sports figures often cross into entertainment, and shows like ‘Strongest Baseball’ play a major role in keeping retired athletes in the public eye.

A New Era: Lee Jong-beom’s Vision for 'Strongest Baseball'

Lee has made it clear that his goal is to bring authenticity and passion to the show. He has insisted that ‘Strongest Baseball’ should not just be about fun, but about real competition and supporting the next generation of players. The show’s format is shifting to include more direct support for amateur baseball, with a portion of the proceeds going to youth and grassroots initiatives. Lee’s leadership style—known for its strategic thinking and dynamic game management—will likely bring a fresh energy to the program. Fans are eager to see how he balances entertainment with the seriousness of the sport, and whether his presence can spark a new baseball boom in Korea.

Behind the Scenes: JTBC, Production Changes, and Rivalries

The new season also comes with production drama. After parting ways with previous producer Jang Si-won, JTBC has brought in a new creative team led by Seong Chi-kyung and Ahn Seong-han. Meanwhile, a legal dispute with the original production company has led to the creation of a rival show, ‘Blazing Baseball,’ on SBS Plus, featuring legendary manager Kim Sung-geun. This sets the stage for a ratings battle and a clash of baseball philosophies—Lee Jong-beom’s speed and instinct versus Kim Sung-geun’s meticulous strategy. Korean fans are buzzing about the upcoming ‘manager showdown,’ making this fall’s TV lineup a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, entertainment, and celebrity culture.

International Fandom: Why You Should Watch 'Strongest Baseball 2025'

If you’re a fan of baseball, reality TV, or Korean pop culture, ‘Strongest Baseball 2025’ is a unique window into the soul of Korean sports entertainment. The show offers a blend of nostalgia, competition, and heartfelt storytelling, with Lee Jong-beom’s leadership promising new twists and emotional moments. For international viewers, it’s a chance to see how Korea celebrates its sporting legends, supports amateur athletes, and creates compelling narratives that go beyond the field. Don’t miss the premiere this September—baseball, drama, and cultural insight await!