Ulsan Whales, the first citizen-owned professional baseball team in KBO League history, has officially taken its first step.
The city of Ulsan held an inauguration ceremony at Munsu Baseball Stadium at 3 p.m. on Thursday, with approximately 500 attendees including Ulsan Mayor Kim Du-gyeom, KBO Commissioner Heo Gu-yeon, team players, and citizens.
The ceremony was designed as a futuristic sports event incorporating AI technology. During the player introductions, AI-generated cheer songs and images were showcased, emphasizing the identity of Ulsan as a "high-tech industrial city." The emblem unveiled for the first time featured an orca, symbolizing superior intelligence and cooperation, reflecting the team's philosophy of valuing teamwork and strategy.
Ulsan Whales will begin spring training in Jeju Island on January 12, followed by the official start of its season schedule with the KBO Futures League opening game on March 20.
The team previously held tryouts at Munsu Baseball Stadium on December 13-14, selecting 26 players in its first round.
"We will spare no administrative and financial support to help Ulsan Whales grow into content that represents 'Fun City Ulsan,'" Mayor Kim said.