Im Sang-woo, Ace of 'Strong Baseball', Expresses Joy After Being Drafted by KT Wiz

Im Sang-woo, who shone as the ace pitcher for the baseball entertainment shows 'Strong Baseball' and 'Flaming Baseball', has expressed his overwhelming emotions after being selected by a professional baseball team.

On the 18th, Im Sang-woo posted on his Instagram, stating, "Hello! This is Im Sang-woo, joining the KT Wiz through the 2026 Rookie Draft. Thank you for your immense support. I will not forget this gratitude and will show you my best performance. Thank you!"

PD Jang Si-won of 'Flaming Baseball' also shared a photo of Im Sang-woo posing in a KT Wiz uniform on his Instagram story, adding a "Heh heh" laugh, celebrating his selection. Fans joined in with heartwarming smiles upon seeing the congratulatory post.

The 2026 KBO Rookie Draft was held on the 17th at Lotte Hotel World in Seoul. Im Sang-woo, representing Dankook University, was chosen by the KT Wiz in the 4th round, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing professionally.

Additionally, a special gift awaited the draftees: uniforms with 'ROOKIE' lettering and baseball-shaped bouquets reflecting KT's team colors were presented. Star players like Jang Seong-woo, Ko Young-pyo, So Hyung-jun, Hwang Jae-gyun, and Kang Baek-ho also gifted signed baseballs exclusively for the rookies, offering a warm welcome.

'Flaming Baseball' has a track record of successfully helping players transition to professional teams since its predecessor, 'Strong Baseball.' Players like Ryu Hyun-in, Yoon Jun-ho, Won Seong-jun, Kim Min-ju, and Go Young-woo were drafted, while Jung Hyun-soo and Hwang Young-mook are currently playing actively in the first teams of the Lotte Giants and Hanwha Eagles, respectively.

Im Sang-woo was a key player during his 'Strong Baseball' days, earning the nickname 'Imstar' for his contributions. Fans are deeply moved by his professional debut, and while they express sadness at his departure from 'Flaming Baseball', they are sending him their full support and congratulations.

Meanwhile, the first round of the draft saw promising players selected by various clubs. Unfortunately, Sun Seong-kwon, who played alongside Im Sang-woo on 'Flaming Baseball', was not called up by any team throughout the draft.

Im Sang-woo was instrumental in 'Strong Baseball' and 'Flaming Baseball' with his exceptional pitching skills, acting as the team's ace. His energetic playing style earned him widespread adoration and the nickname 'Imstar'. Fans are now eagerly anticipating his performances in the professional league.