The Lotte Giants appointed Lee Dong-wook as their 22nd manager on October 26, handing the former NC Dinos skipper a three-year deal worth 2 billion won, including a signing bonus of 500 million won and an annual salary of 500 million won, after missing the postseason for the ninth year.
Leadership Overhaul After Postseason Miss
Lotte parted ways with manager Kim Tae-hyung and general manager Park Joon-hyuk following another disappointing finish. Despite bringing in Kim—who previously led his teams to seven straight Korean Series appearances—the Giants failed to break their playoff drought. Alongside the managerial change, the club appointed Lee Taek-keun as the new general manager. Lee Taek-keun transitions straight from a broadcasting commentator role into the front office without prior coaching or executive experience, marking an unconventional appointment for the franchise.
Timing Controversy and Apologies
The announcement arrived on the morning of October 26, just hours before the scheduled Game 1 of the playoff series between the KIA Tigers and Samsung Lions. The timing violated an unwritten KBO rule against releasing major distraction-heavy news on game days during the postseason. Delayed approval from the parent company and the rain cancellation of the playoff opener on October 25 forced Lotte’s hand, pushing the club to release the news before Game 2 rescheduling eliminated their remaining safe window. Operating staff placed calls to KBO, KIA, and Samsung officials to offer apologies for the disruption.
New Manager Returns Home
For Lee Dong-wook, the new post represents a homecoming to the organization where he began his professional playing career. Having previously steered the NC Dinos to their inaugural championship title in 2020, the incoming manager noted that his return to Lotte spans two decades. Lee addressed the controversial timing of his hiring directly, stating that he felt regret over the announcement landing squarely in the middle of the postseason schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the financial terms of Lee Dong-wook’s contract with the Lotte Giants?
Lee signed a three-year contract worth a total of 2 billion won, which breaks down to a 500 million won signing bonus and an annual salary of 500 million won.
Who did Lotte replace in the front office and coaching staff?
The Giants replaced manager Kim Tae-hyung and general manager Park Joon-hyuk with new manager Lee Dong-wook and incoming general manager Lee Taek-keun.
Why did the timing of the announcement draw criticism from baseball officials?
The club released the news on the morning of a postseason playoff game, violating the baseball industry’s unwritten rule to avoid major announcements on game days so as not to overshadow active playoff series.
“The situation surrounding the timing of the announcement during the playoffs is a matter I view with deep regret,” Lee said.
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