Jang Won-young Throws First Pitch at Mets vs Dodgers Game | IVE K-pop Star

On July 27, 2026 (Korea Standard Time), K-pop star Jang Won-young of the group IVE stepped onto the mound at Citi Field in Flushing, New York, to throw the ceremonial first pitch for the final game of the series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets. The moment quickly became a viral sensation, drawing attention from sports fans and K-pop enthusiasts alike.

Jang Won-young wore a Mets uniform with the number 7 and the name 'JANGWONYOUNG' on the back. She styled the uniform with a tied hem and light blue denim pants, creating a distinctive look that stood out from her fellow IVE members. Other IVE members — Ahn Yu-jin, Autumn, Ray, Leeds, and Lee Seo — also attended the game, making it a group outing for the K-pop act.

The event featured an unusual combination of personalities. Actor Ha Ji-won also wore a Mets uniform with the number 7, creating an unexpected connection between the idol and the actress. Cheerleaders, former MLB pitcher Kim Byung-hyun, and former KBO pitcher Dustin Nippert were also present, adding to the unique atmosphere.

Fox News covered the moment in its 'Monday Screencaps' column, noting the K-pop star's 'amazing windup.' The Korea Herald reported that Jang's first pitch brought the Mets good luck. The event underscores the growing intersection of K-pop and American sports culture, with fan reactions trending on social media.

This is not the first time K-pop idols have appeared at MLB games, but Jang Won-young's appearance stands out for the way she personalized the uniform and the strong social media response. The combination of a top K-pop group, a beloved actress, and baseball legends created a rare cross-cultural moment that resonated with audiences in both Korea and the United States.

For fans of IVE and Jang Won-young, the first pitch was a memorable moment that showcased the group's growing international presence. For baseball fans, it was a fun and unexpected addition to the game day experience. The event highlights how K-pop continues to expand its reach into mainstream American sports, creating new opportunities for cultural exchange.