KBO History Made: Kang Min-ho Signs Record 4th Free Agency Deal with Samsung Lions
Samsung Lions catcher Kang Min-ho has signed a 2-year, 2 billion won contract, becoming the first player in KBO history to sign four free agency deals.
One player, four free agency deals—a feat never before seen in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). According to the Samsung Lions, the club officially re-signed veteran catcher Kang Min-ho on December 28, 2025, to a two-year contract worth up to 2 billion won (approx. $1.38 million).
Defying the Aging Curve at 40
The details of the deal reflect the team's immense trust in the 40-year-old backstop. Kang received a signing bonus of 1 billion won, with an annual salary of 300 million won and additional performance incentives. Despite his age, Kang hasn't slowed down, batting .269 with 12 home runs and 71 RBIs during the 2025 season, marking his 16th consecutive year with double-digit homers.
An Ironman Behind the Plate
Starting his career with the Lotte Giants in 2004, Kang has become the league's all-time leader in games played with 2,496 appearances. Since joining the Lions in 2017, he's been the cornerstone of the pitching staff. "I want to help build a dynasty here over the next two years," Kang stated, expressing pride in reaching a decade of service with the Samsung franchise.
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