Ha-seong Kim

Ha-seong Kim is a South Korean professional baseball infielder currently playing for the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball. Born in Bucheon and raised in a family with deep baseball roots, he made history as the first Korean-born player to win an MLB Gold Glove Award in 2023 while with the San Diego Padres. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches, Kim brings elite defensive range and a unique, high-energy personality that has endeared him to fans across both the United States and South Korea.

In the 2026 season, Kim faced significant challenges with his batting average dropping to .131 during September, yet his value remained undeniable through his glove work and clutch moments. His resilience was highlighted by a walk-off single against the Los Angeles Dodgers on August 26, 2026, which snapped a months-long hitless drought and silenced critics who questioned his spot in the lineup. Despite the offensive slump, managers and teammates continue to rely on his leadership and defensive prowess as a critical component of the Braves' roster. [edit]

Korean: 김하성, Ha-seong Kim was born on October 17, 1995, in Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. His father, Kim Tae-kyung, was a former professional baseball player for the MBC Chungyong team, exposing Ha-seong to the sport from a very young age. Growing up in this environment, he spent countless hours watching his father play and training alongside him, absorbing the discipline and work ethic that define South Korean baseball culture.

He attended Bucheon High School, where he continued to refine his skills as a shortstop. His performance there caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection in the 2014 KBO League Draft. The Nexen Heroes chose him 41st overall, marking the beginning of his professional journey. Before stepping onto the major league stage, Kim established himself as a premier defender in the KBO League, winning three consecutive Golden Glove Awards from 2018 to 2020. This period solidified his reputation not just as a local star but as one of the best defensive shortstops in Asia, setting the stage for his eventual move to North America. [edit]

Kim made his KBO debut on May 16, 2014, after being drafted by the Nexen Heroes. He quickly became a fan favorite for his speed and base-stealing ability, culminating in three straight Golden Glove Awards at shortstop between 2018 and 2020. His success in the Korean league paved the way for a historic move to the United States when he signed a multi-year contract with the San Diego Padres in December 2020.

He made his MLB debut on April 1, 2021, adapting rapidly to the major leagues. By 2022, he had secured the starting shortstop role and earned All-Star recognition. The pinnacle of his early American career arrived in 2023 when he became the first Korean-born player to win an MLB Gold Glove Award. Following this achievement, he finished high in National League MVP voting, cementing his status as a two-way threat.

In late 2024 and into 2025, Kim joined the Atlanta Braves, signing a one-year, $20 million deal for the 2026 season. Although his offense struggled significantly that year, dipping to a .131 average in September, he remained essential to the team's defense. A defining moment came on August 26, 2026, when he hit a walk-off single against the Dodgers, ending a hitless streak that had lasted since June. This performance shifted the narrative around him, proving his value extended far beyond the box score. [edit]

Kim projects an image of fearless energy and relentless hard work. Known for his high-octane style of play, he combines elite defensive range with a charismatic presence that lights up the dugout. His "fearless" attitude has been frequently cited by analysts and teammates alike, particularly in how he handles pressure situations.

Media coverage often highlights his humility and work ethic, contrasting his intense on-field demeanor with a modest off-field persona. He rarely discusses his personal life in interviews, keeping the focus strictly on baseball. His celebratory dances and signature calls have become iconic elements of his brand, resonating strongly with fans in both the U.S. and Korea. [edit]

According to the iFANN Global Fame Rankings, Ha-seong Kim holds the position of the 24th most famous person in Baseball as of the September 2026 rankings. This placement reflects his sustained impact on the sport following his historic Gold Glove win and his recent heroics with the Atlanta Braves.

While there is no official fandom name documented for his supporters, he commands a dedicated following among Braves fans and the broader Korean baseball community. Fans appreciate his resilience, especially during his 2026 slump, where his walk-off hit against the Dodgers became a legendary moment of redemption. The fanbase actively shares clips of his "Korean call" and defensive plays, creating a vibrant online culture that celebrates his unique contributions to the game. [edit]

Kim is famous for his distinctive "Kim Call," a loud, rhythmic shout he makes after making a great defensive play or scoring a run. This unique celebration has become a staple of his broadcasts and is widely shared on social media platforms.

He wears jersey number 7 for the Atlanta Braves, a number he also wore during his time with the San Diego Padres and the Nexen Heroes. Despite weighing 200 pounds, he is known for his exceptional agility and durability on the field.

Beyond his athletic feats, Kim represented South Korea in international tournaments including the World Baseball Classic and the Asian Games, contributing to gold medal wins for his national team. His humility and dedication to the game have made him a role model for aspiring athletes in Korea. [edit]

Ha-seong Kim comes from a family deeply embedded in the world of baseball. His father, Kim Tae-kyung, played professionally for the MBC Chungyong team, serving as Ha-seong's primary mentor and inspiration during his childhood. This familial connection provided him with early access to professional-level training and insights into the sport.

Outside of his immediate family, Kim maintains a notably private personal life. There are no publicly confirmed reports of siblings, spouses, or children. He keeps his home life away from the spotlight, focusing almost exclusively on his career and representing his country in international competitions. His residence is primarily in South Korea, though he spends significant time in the United States during the baseball season. [edit]

Father Kim Tae-kyung (former pro player), Mauricio Dubon, Drake Baldwin, Walt Weiss. [edit]

Ha-seong Kim maintains a notably private personal life compared to many of his peers in the KBO and MLB. As of 2026, there are no publicly confirmed romantic relationships, marriages, or engagements reported by credible media outlets. Unlike some stars who share their dating lives openly, Kim rarely discusses his personal relationships in interviews or on social media.

There are no records of children or high-profile partners linked to him. Public records indicate he is currently single, with his focus remaining almost exclusively on his baseball career, training regimen, and representing South Korea in international tournaments. His privacy extends to his living arrangements, keeping his home life out of the public eye. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Ha-seong Kim's net worth at approximately $24 Million. This figure is derived from his substantial MLB contracts and undisclosed endorsement deals. In 2026, he signed a one-year, $20 million contract with the Atlanta Braves, which forms the bulk of his current earnings.

Before joining the majors, Kim earned significant salaries in the KBO League, though these were lower than their MLB counterparts. His wealth accumulation has been bolstered by partnerships with various sports apparel companies and financial institutions in South Korea, although specific contract values remain private. Real estate holdings are presumed to exist in both South Korea and the U.S., but no public listings have been verified. The majority of his income continues to stem directly from his salary as a starting shortstop, with potential bonuses tied to performance metrics. [edit]

Ha-seong Kim has achieved remarkable recognition throughout his career, becoming the first Korean-born player to win an MLB Gold Glove Award in 2023. Prior to his move to the United States, he dominated the KBO League by winning three consecutive Golden Glove Awards from 2018 to 2020. He was also selected as an All-Star in the National League in 2022 and has represented South Korea in multiple international tournaments, including the World Baseball Classic and Asian Games, securing gold medals for his country. [edit]