Top 10 Most Loved Sports in South Korea: A Deep Dive into the Nation’s Sporting Passion (2025)

Top 10 Most Loved Sports in South Korea: South Korea is a nation where sports are more than just games—they’re a way of life, blending tradition, community, and modern fandom. From packed stadiums to global stages, South Koreans have a deep passion for athletics, fueled by their love for competition, national pride, and the rise of international stars like Son Heung-min. In this blog, I’ll take you through the sports that capture the hearts of millions in South Korea, based on fan engagement, participation, and cultural significance. Let’s get started! Go Website!

Top 10 Most Loved Sports in South Korea

1. Football (Soccer)

Football, or chuk-gu as it’s called in Korean, reigns supreme as South Korea’s most beloved sport in 2025. A 2024 Statista survey found that soccer tops the list of sports South Koreans follow, with millions tuning in to watch both domestic and international matches. The K League, South Korea’s professional football league since 1983, includes K League 1 and K League 2, with 23 teams drawing around 600,000 spectators annually in recent years. The national team, known as the Taegeuk Warriors, has a storied history, reaching the semi-finals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup (co-hosted with Japan) and consistently qualifying for every World Cup since 1986. Stars like Son Heung-min, who’s been lighting up the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, have elevated football’s popularity even further. I’ll never forget the energy of the 2002 World Cup—over 10 million South Koreans flooded the streets to cheer during the semi-finals against Germany. Football isn’t just a sport here; it’s a unifying force that brings the nation together.

2. Baseball

Baseball, known as yagu, is a close second and often competes with football for the top spot. A 2017 survey by the Korea Creative Content Agency found that 62% of South Koreans named baseball their favorite sport, and while football has gained ground, baseball remains a cultural cornerstone. The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) League, founded in 1982, is the most attended sports league in the country, with 10 teams playing 144 games each in the regular season. The Kia Tigers, based in Gwangju, are the most successful team with 11 championships, including the 2024 Korean Series title, as noted in recent posts on X. Seoul’s Jamsil Baseball Stadium and Gocheok Sky Dome are iconic venues where fans pack the stands, creating an electric atmosphere with chants and dances. South Korea’s international success, like their gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and stars like Ryu Hyun-jin in the MLB, keep baseball fever alive.

3. Basketball

Basketball has a passionate following in South Korea, especially among younger fans. The Korea Basketball League (KBL), established in 1997, features 10 teams playing 54 games each season, attracting over 640,000 spectators in the 2019/20 season despite pandemic disruptions. The South Korean national team is a powerhouse in Asia, with a record 25 medals at the Asian Basketball Championship. Ha Seung-Jin, the only South Korean to play in the NBA (Portland Trail Blazers, 2004-2006), remains a legend. Basketball’s fast-paced action and the influence of the NBA—frequently broadcast on Korean TV—have made it a favorite, especially since the 1990s when the sport gained traction among youth. I love how basketball courts are everywhere in South Korea, from schools to public parks, making it super accessible for fans to play and watch.

4. Taekwondo

Taekwondo isn’t just a sport in South Korea—it’s a national treasure and a symbol of cultural identity. Originating on the Korean peninsula with roots possibly dating back to the 1st century BCE (though historical claims are debated), Taekwondo became formalized in the 1950s and an Olympic sport in 2000. It emphasizes high kicks and graceful movements, often compared to a “butterfly” for its elegance compared to other martial arts. South Korea has dominated Olympic Taekwondo, winning numerous medals, and stars like Kim Soo-hyun, an actor and Taekwondo master, highlight its cultural significance. Tournaments like the Korea Open draw huge crowds, and Taekwondo’s inclusion in school curriculums and military training ensures its deep-rooted presence. For me, watching Taekwondo feels like witnessing a piece of South Korean history in motion.

5. Golf

Golf has exploded in popularity in South Korea over the past few decades, especially among women. The LPGA of Korea Tour showcases top talent, and South Korean golfers like Park Inbee, a seven-time major champion, have inspired a new generation. The golf market in South Korea was valued at 13 trillion KRW in 2019, with projections to double by 2025, according to the Sporting Blog. Screen golf, a virtual simulation game, is also a massive hit—Golfzon, a leading screen golf company, generated over 440 billion KRW in revenue recently. With over 100 courses nationwide, particularly around Seoul and Jeju Island, golf is both a professional and recreational favorite. I find it fascinating how South Korea has turned golf into a tech-savvy, accessible sport with screen golf, making it a social activity for all ages.

6. Volleyball

Volleyball is another sport South Koreans adore, thanks to its affordability and accessibility—all you need is a ball, a net, and a court. The V-League, launched in 2005, includes men’s and women’s divisions and draws significant viewership. South Koreans value volleyball for its diversity and team spirit, and the national team has made strides on the international stage. Beach volleyball is also gaining traction, especially in coastal areas. I’ve always loved how volleyball brings communities together in South Korea, whether it’s a casual game in a park or a heated V-League match on TV.

7. Esports

Esports is a cultural phenomenon in South Korea, often called the “national pastime” of the digital age. Since the 2000s, South Korea has been a global leader in esports, with games like StarCraft and League of Legends dominating the scene. Dedicated 24-hour TV channels like MBCGame broadcast tournaments, and the popular portal Naver has a section for esports results. Top players become celebrities overnight, with millions watching competitions online and on TV. The growth of broadband internet after the 1997 Asian financial crisis fueled this boom, and South Korea’s infrastructure for gaming is unmatched. I’m always amazed by the energy at esports events in Seoul—fans cheer as loudly as they do at football matches!

8. Running/Jogging

Running and jogging top the list of participatory sports in South Korea, according to a 2024 Statista survey on the most popular sports activities. With increasing focus on health and fitness, South Koreans of all ages are hitting the trails and tracks. Cities like Seoul have countless running paths along the Han River, and marathons like the Seoul Marathon attract thousands of participants annually. Running’s accessibility—no fancy equipment needed—and its health benefits make it a go-to activity. I’ve joined a few running clubs in South Korea, and the sense of community is incredible; it’s a great way to stay active and meet new people.

9. Badminton

Badminton is a widely loved sport in South Korea, often played in outdoor parks and school gyms. The sport’s popularity stems from its simplicity and the fact that it’s a great workout. South Korean players frequently reach the finals in regional and world championships, boosting its appeal. The national team has excelled in events like the Olympics and the All England Open, and stars like An Se-young have become household names. I love how badminton nets are a common sight in South Korean parks—it’s a sport that brings families and friends together for some fun competition.

10. Ssireum (Korean Wrestling)

Ssireum, a traditional form of Korean wrestling, rounds out the list as a beloved cultural sport. Often compared to sumo but more akin to Mongolian wrestling, ssireum involves two wrestlers trying to force any part of their opponent’s body above the knee to the ground. Matches often take place during traditional festivals like the Dano Festival in Gangneung, where the atmosphere is festive yet low-key. While not as mainstream as football or baseball, ssireum holds a special place in South Korean heritage, symbolizing strength and tradition. Watching a ssireum match feels like stepping back in time—it’s a beautiful blend of sport and history.

Honorable Mentions

South Korea’s love for sports doesn’t stop at the top 10. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• Swimming: Gaining popularity since the Japanese colonial period, with historic pools like those at Deoksugung still in use.
• Ice Hockey: Emerging as a sport, with teams like Anyang Halla winning the Asia League Ice Hockey title.
• Hiking: A national pastime, thanks to South Korea’s mountainous terrain and well-trodden national park trails.

Why South Koreans Love Sports

South Korea’s passion for sports is deeply tied to its history and culture. The 1988 Seoul Olympics and the 2002 FIFA World Cup were turning points, transforming the nation into a global sports powerhouse and sparking widespread interest in athletics. According to the 2018 Sports White Paper, over 5.5 million South Koreans are members of sports-for-all clubs, making up 10.8% of the population. The government actively promotes sports through policies and facilities, with fitness studios booming in recent years. Global stars like Son Heung-min, Kim Yuna, and Park Inbee have also inspired millions to engage in sports, whether as participants or fans. For South Koreans, sports are a source of national pride, community, and a healthy lifestyle.

How to Experience South Korean Sports

If you’re in South Korea or planning a visit, here’s how to dive into the sports scene:

• Catch a KBO Game: Head to Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul for a lively game—don’t miss the fan chants!
• Watch a K League Match: Check out a game at Seoul World Cup Stadium for an unforgettable football experience.
• Join a Running Club: The Han River paths in Seoul are perfect for jogging with locals.
• Visit a Taekwondo Dojang: Many schools offer classes for beginners—try it out for a taste of Korean tradition.
• Tune into Esports: Catch a League of Legends match at an esports arena in Seoul—the energy is electric.

Final Thoughts

South Korea’s love for sports is a beautiful mix of tradition and modernity, from the ancient art of Taekwondo to the digital battlegrounds of esports. Football and baseball may dominate the headlines, but the diversity of sports like golf, volleyball, and ssireum shows the depth of the nation’s sporting culture. As of April 2025, South Korea continues to shine on the global stage, with its athletes and fans proving that sports are a universal language that unites and inspires.

What’s your favorite South Korean sport? Have you been to a KBO game or tried Taekwondo? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Stay tuned for more blogs on South Korean culture, and let’s keep celebrating the power of sports.