40 teams from five regions competed in the final event of the 38th Hanwha Kijachi Baseball Tournament, marking the largest field in the competition’s history, Starnews reported. Cheonan Bukil High School claimed the high school championship, while Hanbat Middle School and Stone Bridge Elementary secured titles in their respective divisions. The tournament, organized by the Daejeon Baseball Softball Association and sponsored by Hanwha, featured 40 teams from Daejeon, Sejong, Chungcheongnam-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, and Gangwon-do.
Hanwha’s 40-Year Commitment to Amateur Baseball
Hanwha’s support for amateur baseball dates back to 1986, when the team’s predecessor, the Ice Cube Eagles, launched the Kijachi Baseball Tournament. The initiative aims to foster regional amateur baseball development and provide youth players with competitive experience. This year’s edition, the 38th, saw a record 40 teams participate, with 13 in the elementary division, 17 in middle school, and 10 in high school.
“With the conclusion of the middle and high school final on April 1, the 38th Hanwha Kijachi Baseball Tournament has officially ended,” Hanwha stated in a press release. The event took place at Hanbat Baseball Field in Daejeon, using a knockout format to determine champions in each category.
Champions Crowned in Three Divisions
In the elementary division, Stone Bridge Elementary School from Chungcheongbuk-do defeated Daejeon Yuwon Elementary to claim the title. The school’s coaches, Lee Hee-jun and Moon Jong-seok, received the Best Coach and Best Mentor awards, while player Han Chan-hee was named Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Hanbat Middle School secured the middle school championship by defeating Cheonan Bukil Middle School.
The high school final saw Cheonan Bukil High School overcome Gongju High School from Chungcheongnam-do.
Hanwha’s Broader Support for Youth Baseball
Hanwha extended its support beyond the local tournament, providing all 40 participating schools with game balls. The company also gifted additional balls to championship and runner-up teams as prizes. The tournament’s emphasis on grassroots development aligns with Hanwha’s broader efforts to nurture talent.
In June, Hanwha hosted the 4th Hanwha Eagle Cup High School and University All-Star Game in Daejeon, partnering with the Korea Baseball Softball Association (KBSA). The event selected 48 national high school and university prospects, offering them a chance to play on a professional league field. Hanwha covered all travel, accommodation, and meal expenses for participants, with scouts from 10 KBO teams evaluating prospects.
Between 2023 and 2025, 133 participants in the All-Star Game saw 107 (80%) transition to professional baseball. University players also gained opportunities through player contract programs, creating pathways for amateur athletes. In February, Hanwha signed a memorandum of understanding with KBSA to ensure the tournament’s continuation, expanding its reach beyond regional competitions.
Future Plans for Youth Baseball Development
Hanwha plans to continue supporting regional school teams and organizing amateur tournaments to enhance youth players’ experience. The company’s dual focus on local and national initiatives highlights its commitment to building a sustainable baseball ecosystem.
The company’s efforts reflect a long-term strategy to identify and develop talent, ensuring a steady pipeline for professional leagues.
Next Steps in Hanwha’s Baseball Initiatives
Hanwha continues to expand its programs to provide more opportunities for amateur athletes.
As Hanwha continues its 40-year legacy of supporting baseball, the 38th Kijachi Tournament highlights Hanwha's role in shaping the future of the sport. With a focus on both local and national development, the company remains a key player in nurturing the next generation of athletes.
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