Miyazaki, Japan – Doosan Bears owner Park Jeong-won, chairman of Doosan Group, is making his mark on the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) not just through investment, but through a clear and uncompromising vision for the team’s future. A recent visit to the Bears’ spring training camp in Miyazaki underscored his commitment to rebuilding a winning culture, following a 9th-place finish in the 2025 season. Park’s direct engagement with players and coaching staff signals a hands-on approach aimed at restoring the franchise to its former glory.
The chairman’s presence at Sun Marine Stadium on February 25th, where the Bears faced the Seibu Lions of Nippon Professional Baseball in the Kyushun Tournament, wasn’t merely observational. He personally shook hands with coach Kim Won-hyung, the entire coaching staff, and each player, offering encouragement and delivering morale-boosting funds to team captain Yang Eui-ji. This gesture, a long-standing tradition for Park, highlights his dedication to fostering a strong team spirit and providing tangible support to the players.
A Clear Message: Beyond Mere Participation
Park Jeong-won’s message was direct and resolute. Recalling his statement from the previous year – “I’m not playing baseball to get 4th or 5th place” – he acknowledged the team’s disappointing 9th-place finish in 2025. However, he reframed this setback as a catalyst for change. “This year, with a novel coach and a new determination, show the power of ‘Miracle Doosan’,” he urged, referencing the team’s historical successes and setting a high bar for performance. This emphasis on ambition and a return to winning ways is central to Park’s strategy for the Bears.
The chairman’s commitment extends beyond motivational speeches and financial incentives. He consistently visits the team’s training facilities, both domestically and internationally, to assess conditions and ensure players have the resources they need. In 2025, he provided each of the 35 players with tablet PCs valued at 1.5 million won to aid in real-time power analysis, demonstrating a willingness to invest in cutting-edge technology to enhance performance. Sports Chosun reported on this investment, highlighting Park’s proactive approach to player development.
Kim Won-hyung’s Response and the Path Forward
Coach Kim Won-hyung expressed gratitude for Park’s unwavering support, stating, “On behalf of the team, I would like to thank the club owner for coming all the way to Japan. I can feel how much he cares for the club. I will do my best for the remaining camp to meet your expectations.” This sentiment reflects the positive impact of Park’s leadership on the team’s morale and commitment to improvement. The new coach, appointed after the 2025 season, faces the challenge of rebuilding a team that underperformed the previous year, but he appears to have the full backing of ownership.
The Doosan Bears’ training regimen in Miyazaki follows an initial camp focused on physical conditioning and tactical training held at Blacktown Baseball Stadium in Sydney, Australia. The team will participate in seven practice games, including the ongoing Kyushun Tournament, providing valuable opportunities to refine their skills and build team cohesion before the start of the KBO season. The focus on both physical preparation and strategic development underscores a comprehensive approach to improving the team’s overall performance.
Doosan’s Legacy and the Pursuit of Excellence
Park Jeong-won’s dedication to the Doosan Bears is well-documented. His annual visits to training camps are not merely symbolic; they represent a genuine commitment to understanding the players’ needs and providing them with the best possible environment to succeed. This hands-on approach is a defining characteristic of his leadership and a key factor in the team’s past successes. The “Miracle Doosan” era, a period of sustained dominance in the KBO, serves as a benchmark for the team’s aspirations.
The KBO League, established in 1982, has grown into a highly competitive professional baseball league in South Korea. The Doosan Bears are one of the league’s ten founding members and have consistently been a strong contender, winning championships in 1995, 2001, 2015, 2016, and 2019. Maintaining this legacy of excellence is clearly a priority for Park Jeong-won.
Looking Ahead: Softbank Hawks and the 2026 Season
Following the game against the Seibu Lions, Park Jeong-won is scheduled to observe the Softbank Hawks in action on February 27th, further demonstrating his commitment to studying successful baseball programs. This proactive approach to learning and adaptation is indicative of his broader strategy for improving the Doosan Bears. The 2026 KBO season promises to be a pivotal one for the team, as they strive to regain their competitive edge under the leadership of Park Jeong-won and coach Kim Won-hyung.
The emphasis on rebuilding, coupled with Park’s unwavering support and investment, suggests a long-term vision for the Doosan Bears. While the 9th-place finish in 2025 was undoubtedly a setback, it appears to have galvanized the organization and fueled a renewed determination to return to the pinnacle of Korean baseball. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this ambition can be realized.
The next key date for the Doosan Bears is the start of the 2026 KBO regular season, scheduled for April 1st. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the team can translate the positive energy and commitment demonstrated during spring training into on-field success.
What are your thoughts on Park Jeong-won’s leadership and the Doosan Bears’ prospects for the 2026 season? Share your opinions in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow baseball fans!