Kim Ra-kyung returns after surgery

[Anchor]

Kim Ra-kyung, one of the ace players in Korean women's baseball, is overcoming an injury that tore her elbow ligament and is embarking on her second challenge in Japan.

Kim Ra-kyung has vowed to become the best pitcher in Japan.

Reporter Ha Mu-rim has the story.

[Report]

Braving the severe cold, Kim Ra-kyung has begun intense training with her older brother, who is a former professional baseball player.

She throws a variety of pitches, including fastballs, curves, and change-ups with precision.

Throwing at speeds of over 110km/h, Kim Ra-kyung is one of the ace pitchers in Korean women's baseball.

Ten years ago, at the age of 14, she gained attention as a prodigy when she hit a home run.

Since then, she has been studying at Seoul National University and three years ago, joined the Japanese corporate team Asahi.

However, her joy was short-lived as she suffered an elbow injury, underwent Tommy John surgery, and spent a long time in rehabilitation.

Although deep scars remain on her elbow, she is now taking on her second challenge wearing the Seibu uniform.

[Kim Ra-kyung/Seibu Ladies: "I still have a love for baseball, and I'll only be able to shake this lingering feeling if the ligament tears again."]

Kim Ra-kyung plans to graduate from Seoul National University next week and head to Japan immediately after.

[Kim Ra-kyung/Seibu Ladies: "Baseball is like a lover. It thrills me and hurts me, and I am grateful for the diverse emotions it brings. I think I will love it forever."]

KBS News, Ha Mu-rim.