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Reconstruction of Sajik Baseball Stadium Passes Central Investment Review! Full-Scale Construction of a Premier Stadium Begins

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Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced today (3rd) that the "Busan Sajik Baseball Stadium Reconstruction Project" has passed the central investment review by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, officially launching the project into full motion.

Under the Local Finance Act, newly proposed projects with a total cost of over KRW 50 billion must undergo a feasibility study by an expert institution designated by the Minister of the Interior and Safety (in this case, the Korea Local Administration Research Institute), followed by passing the central investment review.

Passing the central investment review means that the necessity and feasibility of reconstructing Sajik Baseball Stadium have been officially recognized by the government. This marks a significant turning point for transforming Sajik Stadium—an enduring symbol of baseball for the people of Busan—into a premier sports facility.

Since its opening in 1985, Sajik Baseball Stadium has been beloved by fans for over 40 years. However, due to aging infrastructure and safety concerns, the need for reconstruction has been consistently raised. Through this project, the city plans to go beyond merely replacing old facilities and instead rebuild the stadium as a “futuristic smart baseball park” incorporating advanced technology and eco-friendly elements.

The project timeline is as follows: a design competition will commence in 2026, followed by construction from 2028 to 2030, with the official opening targeted for 2031. During the construction period, the Busan Asiad Main Stadium will be remodeled into a temporary venue to provide a pleasant and safe viewing environment.

The new baseball stadium will be equipped with smart technology, including real-time game data analysis (such as pitch type, speed, and batting averages), mobile app-based guidance for safe routes and seating, and augmented reality (AR) photo zones where fans can appear to take pictures with players—enhancing both convenience and engagement for visitors.

The exterior spaces will utilize eco-friendly energy sources for smart lighting and digital media devices that display game schedules, player introductions, highlight videos, and nighttime light shows. Even on non-game days, the facility will offer entertainment and visual experiences.

To accelerate the project, the city will establish a dedicated task force and an advisory panel comprising stakeholders such as the city government, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), Lotte Giants, and architecture and sports experts. This group will collect input and devise a systematic implementation plan.

Additionally, to reduce the city’s financial burden and ensure the project’s stability, Busan Metropolitan City will actively participate in public contests organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to secure national funding.

Mayor Park Heong-joon stated, “The new Sajik Baseball Stadium will be more than just a sports venue; it will serve as a key driver of the local economy and become a future asset of Busan where sports, culture, and industry intersect.” He added, “Based on communication with our citizens, we will do our utmost to create a ‘sports paradise city Busan’—a place where people would choose to live again.”