Kim Jin-sung breaks all-time holds record at 41

LG Twins reliever Kim Jin-sung etched his name into Korean baseball history on 11 August, securing his 178th career hold in a match against Kiwoom Heroes at Seoul's Gocheok Sky Dome. The 41-year-old surpassed retired Samsung Lions pitcher An Ji-man's previous record of 177 holds, becoming the KBO League's all-time holds leader.

Entering in the seventh inning with LG ahead 4-2, Kim Jin-sung worked a clean frame, recording two outs before allowing a solo home run and a single. He escaped the inning without further damage, preserving his team's 8-3 victory.

After the match, Kim Jin-sung reflected on his journey with gratitude. "I've had many ups and downs in my playing career, but by not giving up and holding onto my determination, an opportunity like this came," he said, crediting his manager, coaches and family for their support. "I'm grateful to achieve this record as an LG player."

LG manager Yeom Kyung-yup acknowledged the milestone alongside the team's victory. "Kim Jin-sung and our other relief pitchers did their roles well. I especially congratulate him on the record," Yeom said.

Kim Jin-sung's path to this achievement was unconventional. After joining SK Wyverns in 2004, he spent years without reaching the majors. His breakthrough came in 2013 with newly formed NC Dinos. Released after the 2021 season despite accumulating 67 holds, he joined LG in 2022 and has since become the league's top closer, posting 33 holds in 2025 alone.

With 18 holds this season and a 2+1-year contract extension worth 1.6 billion won through 2028, Kim Jin-sung now trains his sights on an uncharted milestone: becoming the first KBO pitcher to reach 200 holds.