Kia said on the 11th that it will recruit Korea representatives for the "Ballkids" who will take the court at the 2027 Australian Open in January next year. Ballkids handle and supply balls on court during tennis matches and assist with player support and match operations to help ensure smooth competition.
Recruitment will be conducted in two rounds, the first from May 11 to June 10 and the second from July 20 to Aug. 19. Applicants may apply to both rounds.
Any youth of Korean nationality among the children or grandchildren of customers who own a Kia vehicle (including purchase, long-term rental, lease, and used cars) who, as of Jan. 1, 2027, are ages 12–15 (born between Jan. 2, 2011, and Jan. 1, 2015) and have no disqualifying reasons for overseas travel may apply.
Applications can be submitted through the official Kia Ballkids website, and a total of 20 Ballkids will be selected after an English proficiency assessment (TOEIC Bridge) to check communication skills required for the role, as well as tests on knowledge of tennis rules and athletic ability.
The final selectees will take part in the 2027 Australian Open in Melbourne, Australia, in January 2027, experience players' matches on site, and directly experience local Australian culture, completing about two weeks of official activities.
Kia is the longest-standing sponsor of the Australian Open, one of the world's four tennis majors, having sponsored the tournament since 2002 and selected Korea's representative Ballkids every year since 2003.