"A Mindset of a Second Founding"
NC Dinos CEO Lee Jinman is giving a briefing on the reopening of the baseball stadium and related matters on the afternoon of the 30th at Changwon NC Park in Masanhoewon District, Changwon City, Gyeongnam. Photo by Yonhap News
As the NC Dinos professional baseball team leaves open the possibility of relocating their home base, Changwon City in Gyeongnam has announced its intention to strengthen cooperation with the team.
NC Dinos CEO Lee Jinman held a press conference at Changwon NC Park on the 30th, ahead of a home game against the Hanwha Eagles. He stated, "This incident has prompted us to reflect on the club, our surroundings, and the past," adding, "We will seek a partnership based on mutual trust."
Lee emphasized, "With the mindset of a second founding, we will explore new possibilities and reset our direction to become a beloved club." However, he clarified that there has been no concrete progress regarding the potential relocation of the home base, and stated that all possibilities are being carefully considered.
On the afternoon of the same day, Changwon City released a statement regarding NC's mention of a possible relocation. The city said, "A professional baseball club is an important asset for the region, growing together with its citizens," and added, "We will strengthen communication and cooperation with the club so that players can play baseball in a better environment." This is interpreted as the city's intention to actively cooperate with the club to prevent the scenario in which NC's possible relocation becomes a reality.
This conflict originated from a safety accident that occurred during a game against the LG Twins at Changwon NC Park on March 29. At that time, an exterior finishing material (louver) fell, resulting in the death of one spectator and injuries to two others. Following the incident, safety inspections were conducted, and NC was unable to play games at their home stadium.
On May 23, NC decided to return to Changwon NC Park after comprehensively considering the local commercial district, KBO League fans, and team operations. Starting with the game against Hanwha on the 30th, the team will play the remaining home games of the season in Changwon.
At the press conference, Lee claimed, "The club has made efforts to put down roots in the local community, but has received unfair treatment, and recently, we have faced situations that threaten our very survival." It is known that on the 29th, NC delivered an official letter to Changwon City containing specific requests for support.
As of the 29th, NC holds 8th place in the KBO League standings with 23 wins, 25 losses, and 3 draws.
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