12 Billion Jackpot Exploded! Song Sung-moon of Kiwoom Sets Record for 'Highest Amount for a Non-FA Player'

[Financial News] Song Sung-moon (28), an 'emerging' infielder of Kiwoom Heroes, has struck a monumental contract that will be remembered in the club's history. As a non-free agent (FA), he signed a multi-year contract with a total of 12 billion won over six years, setting a new milestone in the history of professional baseball.
This contract is the highest amount for a non-FA multi-year contract in the KBO League. It far exceeds the previous record of 9 billion won (excluding an additional 3 billion won option) by Koo Ja-wook of Samsung, clearly showing the great expectations and trust Kiwoom has in Song Sung-moon. In terms of guaranteed salary, it is the second-largest in history, following Kim Kwang-hyun of SSG (13.1 billion won).
Kiwoom officially announced on the 4th that they signed a contract with Song Sung-moon for a total of 12 billion won from 2026 to 2031. Notably, the entire contract amount is guaranteed salary. It is purely a result of recognizing his skill and value, without the complex options typically included in multi-year contracts. In the reality of an 'overheated FA market', Kiwoom made a 'bold investment' to secure Song Sung-moon as a core force of the team.



Song Sung-moon, who joined Kiwoom in 2015, was not a player who attracted attention from the start. However, he quietly held his position, honed his skills, and gradually grew into a key player for the team. Last year, he led the team with outstanding performance in both offense and defense, and from mid-season, he took on the responsibility of captain, demonstrating leadership.
This season as well, Song Sung-moon continues to perform steadily. He is leading the team's batting lineup with a batting average of 0.297, 16 home runs, and 57 RBIs. His career stats are a batting average of 0.278, 70 home runs, and 421 RBIs. Kiwoom recognized his value as a core infielder of the team due to his consistency and diligence.
Wi Jae-min, CEO of Kiwoom Heroes, stated, "This contract is a significant investment, but it is an expression of trust and expectation for Song Sung-moon." General Manager Heo Seung-pil also expressed anticipation, saying, "Song Sung-moon has enough qualities to continue the lineage of players symbolizing the Heroes."
Song Sung-moon expressed his thoughts, saying, "I am grateful for the club's trust and feel a great sense of responsibility." He pledged, "I will take pride in the name Heroes and always do my best to repay the fans."
This contract is expected to be a meaningful event that sets a new benchmark in the non-FA multi-year contract market, beyond just the success of one player. Both Kiwoom Heroes and Song Sung-moon are expected to create synergy with this long-term contract, which will be a 'win-win' for both sides.






jsi@fnnews.com Jeon Sang-il Reporter