BTS member V successfully threw the ceremonial first pitch at a Major League Baseball (MLB) game in the United States.
On the 26th (KST), V took the mound at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles before the game between the LA Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds. As V appeared in an LA Dodgers uniform, the stadium erupted with cheers. With BTS's hit song 'MIC Drop' playing in the background, V delivered a stellar pitch with a bright smile.
V then made a surprise return to the mound to enthusiastically shout the LA Dodgers' signature catchphrase, "It's time for Dodger baseball!" This phrase was famously used by legendary MLB broadcaster Vin Scully to announce the start of Dodgers games. V's spirited shout electrified the entire stadium.
The local broadcast team also reacted enthusiastically. They commented, "V is a global sensation. As soon as his first pitch was announced, ticket sales skyrocketed, and a massive crowd gathered at the stadium." In fact, news of V's participation temporarily crashed ticketing site servers. According to online ticket platform StubHub, ticket sales for the game surged more than fivefold compared to the average. The broadcasters also praised V as an 'undeniable superstar,' highlighting his global brand power. They even joked about his pitch, saying, "He threw a fantastic curveball. We should sign him immediately."
Through his agency, Big Hit Music, V shared, "I once watched an LA Dodgers game with my members during our debut days. Coming back here after so long brought back those memories and was fun. It was a joy to throw the first pitch at a place filled with debut memories. If I get another chance, I'd love to learn more and do it again. I'm sincerely grateful for the enthusiastic support from ARMY and baseball fans."
With this first pitch, V captivated both global K-pop fans and sports enthusiasts, proving his worldwide presence. Recently, he has been active as a model for high-end luxury brands, global beverage and coffee brands, and premium outdoor brands, showcasing his broad influence across culture and lifestyle.
BTS, the group V belongs to, is currently working on new music with a comeback planned for spring 2026. They are also preparing for a large-scale world tour alongside the release of their new album.
Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr