"Why seek reasons? We lost by skill."… Harsh criticism after Korea's crushing defeat in baseball match against Japan

A former professional baseball player pointed out that the Korean national team's complete loss to Japan at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games was due to inferior skill, urging improvements in fundamental techniques and the player development system.

Kang Ri-ho evaluated the recent performance of the Korean national team through a video posted on his YouTube channel "Pobolwang Kang Yoon-gu" on the 27th.

He cited insufficient fundamentals, including defense, as the cause of Japan's defeat. While batting and pitching can be affected by daily physical condition, he explained that defense must remain consistent as it is the most basic element.

Kang Ri-ho stated, "It seems Korea takes even a single error too lightly," adding, "How can you win if your defense fails from the start?"

He also rejected attributing the loss to the fact that Japan's team was composed of amateur players. Kang evaluated Japanese players as possessing near-professional skill levels, saying, "Rather than Japan playing well, we simply lost by skill—why search for reasons? We just lost."

He emphasized the need for changes in pitcher competitiveness. Unlike in the past, fastballs clocking 140 km/h in the mid-to-late range are no longer sufficient to compete internationally; precise control and reliable breaking balls are now essential.

Kang argued that fundamental competitiveness can only be improved by reforming player development methods starting from the amateur level. He specifically suggested reintroducing aluminum bats in high school baseball, which could help pitchers develop better control rather than relying on well-hit balls. He also cited reduced economic burdens on players and parents caused by expensive wooden bats as a reason.

He also proposed creating leagues organized by grade and skill level to increase players' practical game experience. The goal is to move away from the current system where playing opportunities concentrate on a few starters, instead fostering an environment where younger players can consistently participate in games and grow steadily.

Kang Ri-ho stressed, "We should not only allow skilled players to compete but also give opportunities to those who rarely get to play," adding, "The system must be changed starting from amateur baseball."