Quick Read
- BTS’ V threw the ceremonial first pitch at Dodgers Stadium on August 25, 2025.
- Ticket sales for the game spiked 5x, temporarily crashing StubHub servers.
- V wore a Dodgers jersey with symbolic number 7, representing BTS’ seven members.
- Fans praised V’s charisma, English-speaking skills, and interaction with attendees.
- The event highlighted the global impact of K-pop and the Hallyu Wave.
On Monday, August 25, 2025, BTS member Kim Taehyung, popularly known as V, made waves in Los Angeles as he stepped onto the mound at Dodger Stadium to throw the ceremonial first pitch before a Major League Baseball (MLB) game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds. The event not only highlighted the global reach of K-pop but also demonstrated V’s extraordinary star power, which caused a five-fold spike in ticket sales and temporarily overwhelmed ticketing platforms.
V’s Appearance at Dodger Stadium: A Moment to Remember
Decked out in a Dodgers jersey emblazoned with the number 7 and paired with faded blue jeans, V exuded confidence as he took center stage at Dodger Stadium. His warm interactions with fans and fellow athletes added to the charm of the event. Before throwing the pitch, he greeted Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto with a respectful bow and shared a heartfelt hug with Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani in the dugout. The crowd erupted in applause as V delivered a clean left-handed pitch, which Yamamoto caught effortlessly. He then followed up with the iconic pregame phrase, “It’s time for Dodger baseball,” spoken flawlessly in English.
V’s charisma extended beyond the pitch, as he took time to meet with young fans near the dugout, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Social media platforms were flooded with images and videos of the event, with fans marveling at his fashion sense and his ability to connect with people of all ages. One viral post noted, “In 2014, Taehyung was at Dodger Stadium cheering with excitement; now in 2025, he’s back to throw the ceremonial first pitch. What a journey!”
The Unprecedented Ticket Sales Surge
StubHub, a major ticket exchange platform, reported an extraordinary five-fold increase in ticket sales for the Dodgers game after it was announced that V would be throwing the ceremonial pitch. This surge in demand even led to temporary server overloads on the platform, underscoring the massive influence of the BTS member. According to StubHub’s official statement, “Dodgers ticket sales jumped 5× overnight on StubHub after V from BTS was announced to throw the first pitch on August 25th, making the Dodgers the #1 most searched MLB team this week.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers themselves acknowledged the excitement, tweeting a week prior to the event, “ARMY, you ready? V will be at Dodger Stadium on 8/25 to throw out the ceremonial first pitch!” The post garnered millions of views, with fans expressing their gratitude and anticipation through comments and emojis. This phenomenon is a testament to the global reach of the Hallyu Wave, which continues to captivate audiences far beyond South Korea.
Symbolism and the Power of Seven
V’s choice of the number 7 for his Dodgers jersey was not random; it held deep symbolic meaning for BTS fans, known as ARMY. The number represents the seven members of BTS—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—who have collectively inspired millions worldwide. This subtle nod to his bandmates resonated deeply with fans, adding an emotional layer to an already historic moment.
This isn’t the first time a BTS member has made headlines at a major international event. In 2024, Jin, another member of BTS, served as a torchbearer for South Korea in the Paris Olympics Torch Relay. Such appearances underscore the group’s ability to transcend music and make meaningful contributions to global culture.
Global Impact of BTS and Taehyung’s Star Power
BTS, also known as Bangtan Boys, was formed in 2010 and has since become a global phenomenon. The group’s influence extends beyond music, touching on fashion, philanthropy, and even diplomacy. V’s appearance at Dodger Stadium is a continuation of this legacy, demonstrating how K-pop idols can bridge cultural gaps and bring people together through shared experiences.
V’s participation in the ceremonial pitch also highlights the growing acceptance and celebration of South Korean culture in the United States. The event was more than just a baseball game; it was a cultural exchange that showcased the power of entertainment to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
As the Hallyu Wave continues to rise, moments like these remind us of the profound impact of cultural icons like V, who effortlessly combine talent, charisma, and humility to inspire millions worldwide.