Hanwha Eagles star Noh Si-hwan has signed an unprecedented 11-year, 30.7 billion won contract, becoming the highest-paid player in KBO history, according to reports surfacing on Monday, February 23, 2026.
The massive deal, announced just hours ago, has sparked debate about its fairness and whether it represents a bubble in the Korean baseball market. News of the contract broke during the MBC’s “News Desk” broadcast, quickly gaining traction across social media and sports news outlets.
Noh Si-hwan, a 25-year-old infielder (born December 3, 2000), has quickly risen to prominence in the KBO. He currently plays for the Hanwha Eagles and boasts a stature of 185cm and 105kg. His career began with Busan Suyoung Elementary School, followed by Gyeongnam Middle School and Gyeongnam High School.
The contract extends Noh Si-hwan’s commitment to the Eagles through 2037, bypassing the traditional free agency route. This move signals a significant investment in a player widely considered to be one of the league’s brightest stars.
Just recently, Noh Si-hwan showcased his skills on the international stage, hitting a two-run home run for the national team. This performance came after the contract was finalized, offering a glimpse of the impact he hopes to make for both his club and country.
The agreement has drawn comparisons to other recent high-value contracts in the KBO, including that of LG Twins player Moon Bo-gyeong, a teammate of Noh Si-hwan. The contrast in their contract values – 30.7 billion won versus 1 billion won – highlights the evolving financial landscape of Korean baseball and the “all or nothing” approach some teams are now taking.
This landmark deal is expected to have ripple effects throughout the KBO, potentially influencing future contract negotiations and player valuations. The Hanwha Eagles are clearly betting big on Noh Si-hwan’s continued success, hoping he will lead them to championship contention in the years to come.
