Professional baseball NC Dinos left-handed pitcher Kim Jin-woo expressed his feelings upon returning after completing his military service.
After graduating from Gunsan Sanggo, Kim Jin-woo began his professional career after being selected in the second 10th round by NC in 2021. In 2022, he made 27 appearances in Futures games, achieving 2 wins, 7 holds, and an earned run average of 1.86. Having completed his military service as an instructor in a certain unit of the army in Gyeonggi Province, he was able to wear the NC uniform again after passing the re-entry test.
He, who served as an instructor in a certain army unit, said, "During my training period, the instructors said I seemed like I would do well, and I was told that I would have plenty of time to work out, which encouraged me to apply. I also thought that after becoming an instructor, I wanted to create an environment where I could work out with former players."
While serving with Kang Hyun-goo (Doosan Bears), Lee Seung-ho, and Lee Jae-hong (Kiwoom Heroes), they supported each other greatly.
Kim Jin-woo said, "Since I came in from baseball, I was able to openly talk about difficulties and concerns. Among them, Seung-ho hyung had a lot of experience in the first team, providing many pieces of advice, and during that process, I could refine my curveball and changeup to prepare effectively."
He also expressed gratitude, saying, "Personally, I think my military life was a significant turning point in my baseball career, and it was possible thanks to the substantial support from Seung-ho hyung. He also supported me with equipment and holds a special meaning for me."
Kim Jin-woo mentioned that marching 100 kilometers without sleep is the most memorable experience, stating, "This march was conducted by recruiting volunteers within the division, and it's something you can't do at any other time in your life. I wanted to create an opportunity to strengthen myself. The sense of achievement and pride after enduring the desire to give up has been a great motivation in my current baseball journey."
Kim Jin-woo, who is preparing for this season at the Futures camp, stated, "I am throwing the ball as hard as I can to get my body back in shape. I focus entirely on throwing with full power, looking at the catcher's mitt on the mound without any distractions."
Regarding his goals for this season, he said, "Through my baseball career and the process of entering after completing my service, the encouragement and support from my parents has been a great strength. I am grateful to my parents, who have always been on my side, and I would like to show them a good performance."
He added, "I want to prepare well this season and show myself to the fans who visit Changwon NC Park. I hope to debut with the N team and participate in about 10 games."