Kiwoom Heroes extend contract with former MVP Seo Geon-chang

By Yoo Jee-ho

SEOUL, May 20 (Yonhap) -- The Kiwoom Heroes announced Wednesday they have signed former MVP-winning veteran Seo Geon-chang to a two-year extension.

The Heroes said the deal will pay Seo an annual salary of 500 million won (US$330,930) in each of the next two years, with another 100 million won up for grabs in incentives.

The Heroes signed Seo to a one-year deal worth 120 million won before this season and will now keep the 36-year-old infielder for two more seasons.

"We appreciate the dedication and work ethic Seo Geon-chang has shown since he joined us," the Heroes said. "We hope he will continue to use his experience to be the leader for our young players and help the team take the next step."

Seo made his Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) debut with the LG Twins in 2008, but after logging just one at-bat with them, Seo went on to enjoy his best years during his first tour of duty with the Heroes from 2012 to 2020.

He was voted the KBO's Rookie of the Year in 2012, while also earning the Golden Glove at second base as the best overall player at that position. Then in 2014, Seo captured the regular-season MVP award after setting single-season records with 201 hits and 135 runs scored, while also winning his first batting title with a .370 average.

Slowed by injuries, Seo bounced between the Twins and the Kia Tigers from 2021 to 2025, and then reunited with the Heroes for this season.

In nine games this season through Tuesday, Seo is batting .297 with three RBIs and a .409 on-base percentage.

"I am glad to be a part of this team for such a long time, and I know what the team expects from me," Seo said. "I will try to set a good example for my teammates."