The End of an Era: Hong Won-ki's Heartfelt Farewell to Kiwoom Heroes After 17 Years

A Manager's Emotional Goodbye: Hong Won-ki's Final Words

On January 16th, former Kiwoom Heroes manager Hong Won-ki took to social media to deliver what many fans consider one of the most heartfelt farewell messages in recent KBO history. After 17 years with the organization, Hong's departure marked the end of an era that saw the team reach unprecedented heights, including their memorable 2022 Korean Series appearance.

"I'm putting a period on my coaching career with Kiwoom Heroes," Hong wrote on his SNS account. "Since I couldn't personally greet all the fans, I'm conveying my feelings through social media." His message resonated deeply with the Heroes faithful, who had witnessed his journey from a base running coach in 2009 to the manager who led them to their first Korean Series in franchise history.

The timing of his farewell coincided with the team's ongoing struggles in the 2024 season, where they found themselves at the bottom of the standings for the second consecutive year. Despite the disappointing results, Hong's message focused on gratitude rather than regret, showcasing the character that endeared him to players and fans alike throughout his tenure.

The Glory Days: Remembering the 2022 Korean Series Magic

Hong Won-ki's most defining moment as a manager came during the 2022 season when he guided Kiwoom Heroes to their first-ever Korean Series appearance. In his farewell message, he vividly recalled that autumn: "Looking back at 2022, when we stepped onto that stage again, I felt genuine chills, and tears came without me realizing it."

The 2022 postseason run was nothing short of miraculous. After finishing the regular season in fourth place, the Heroes embarked on a playoff journey that captivated the entire nation. Hong's tactical brilliance and ability to motivate his players became legendary, earning him the nickname "Won-ki Magic" among fans. The team's Cinderella story reached its peak when they defeated the SSG Landers 7-6 in extra innings during Game 1 of the Korean Series at Incheon SSG Landers Field.

Though they ultimately fell short, finishing as runners-up to the SSG Landers, the 2022 season established Hong Won-ki as one of the most respected managers in KBO history. His ability to maximize the potential of a relatively modest roster demonstrated his exceptional leadership qualities and deep understanding of the game.

From Player to Coach: Hong Won-ki's 17-Year Journey with Heroes

Hong Won-ki's relationship with the Heroes organization began in 2009 when he joined as a first-team base running coach, two years after ending his playing career with the Hyundai Unicorns in 2007. His transition from player to coach was seamless, quickly establishing himself as a valuable member of the coaching staff.

Throughout his coaching career, Hong progressed through various roles, serving as a defensive coach and senior coach before finally taking the helm as manager in 2021. His deep understanding of the organization's culture and his ability to connect with players across generations made him an invaluable asset to the team.

In his farewell message, Hong reflected on the passage of time: "Song Seong-mun, who joined the team when I was still a coach, is now leading the team as captain. It really makes me realize how much time has passed." This observation highlighted not only his longevity with the organization but also his role in nurturing young talent and watching them develop into team leaders.

The recent struggles of the team, including injuries to key players like Lee Jung-hoo and Ahn Woo-jin, as well as Lee Jung-hoo's departure to MLB, contributed to the team's consecutive last-place finishes in 2023 and 2024, ultimately leading to Hong's dismissal alongside general manager Ko Hyung-wook and senior coach Kim Chang-hyun.

Fan Love and 'Won-ki Magic': The Special Bond Between Manager and Supporters

Perhaps the most touching aspect of Hong Won-ki's farewell message was his acknowledgment of the unwavering support from Kiwoom Heroes fans. Despite the team's recent struggles, the fanbase remained loyal, a gesture that deeply moved the departing manager.

"I've read all 300+ messages that fans have sent me recently," Hong wrote. "Your sincere encouragement and warm words have been a tremendous source of strength, and I'm deeply grateful." This personal touch demonstrated Hong's genuine appreciation for the fan community that had supported him through both triumph and adversity.

The manager specifically mentioned the creative ways fans showed their support, including the famous "Won-ki Magic" banner that became synonymous with the team's 2022 playoff run. "The 'Won-ki Magic' banner that one fan personally made and held up, the character keychains made to look like me, and the letters and gifts from young student fans - all these expressions of support and warm hearts remain vividly in my memory."

Online communities like DC Inside and Naver Cafe were flooded with tributes to Hong following his farewell message. Fans shared memories of his tactical decisions, his passionate dugout presence, and his genuine interactions with supporters. The overwhelming sentiment was one of gratitude for the memories he created, particularly during the magical 2022 season.

Community Reactions: Mixed Emotions in the Digital Baseball World

Korean baseball communities responded with a mixture of nostalgia and understanding to Hong Won-ki's departure. On platforms like DC Inside's baseball gallery, fans engaged in lengthy discussions about his legacy, with many acknowledging that while his recent results were disappointing, his contributions to the franchise were undeniable.

"Hong Won-ki gave us the greatest moment in Heroes history," wrote one user on Naver's baseball community. "The 2022 Korean Series run was something I'll never forget. Even though things didn't work out recently, I have nothing but respect for him." This sentiment was echoed across multiple platforms, with fans appreciating his dignity in handling the dismissal.

However, not all reactions were entirely positive. Some criticized the team's performance over the past two seasons, pointing to tactical decisions and roster management as areas of concern. "While I appreciate what he did in 2022, two consecutive last-place finishes can't be ignored," commented another fan on FMKorea. "Sometimes change is necessary, even if it's painful."

The balanced nature of fan reactions reflected the complex emotions surrounding Hong's departure - gratitude for past achievements coupled with understanding of the need for change given recent results.

Looking Forward: Hong Won-ki's Promise to Remain a Fan

In his closing remarks, Hong Won-ki made a promise that resonated deeply with Heroes supporters: "Now I'll be watching this team from outside the ballpark, from a little distance. But my heart will still be directed toward the field." This commitment to remaining connected to the organization, even from afar, demonstrated the genuine affection he maintained for the team and its fans.

The former manager's pledge to support the team as a fan in future encounters added a touching human element to his farewell. "If we meet again someday, I'll be there as a fan, giving the biggest applause of anyone," he wrote, painting a picture of a future where he might be seen in the stands rather than the dugout.

Hong also used his final message to encourage continued support for the current players and staff: "I ask fans to continue their passionate support until the end so our players can finish the remaining season without injuries and with a good showing." This selfless focus on the team's future success, rather than dwelling on his own disappointment, exemplified the leadership qualities that made him beloved by both players and fans throughout his tenure with the Kiwoom Heroes.