Jung-ho Kang was born on May 4, 1987 in Gwangju, South Korea to parents Myung-hee Cho and Sung-su Kang. From a young age, Kang showed a natural talent for baseball and began playing the sport in his hometown.
During his high school years, Kang primarily played catcher for his school's baseball team. He was a standout player, helping lead his team to victory in the Golden Lion Flag Championship. Kang's skills on the field did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the Outstanding Pitcher Award and the RBI title, solidifying his reputation as a top player in his region.
After graduating high school, Kang went on to play professionally in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) League. He first played for the Hyundai Unicorns and later moved to the Nexen Heroes. Kang quickly made a name for himself in the league, earning All-Star honors five times during his tenure there.
Despite his success in the KBO League, Kang's talent extended beyond South Korea's borders. He represented his country on the South Korean national team, winning gold medals at the Asian Games in both 2010 and 2014. Kang's performances on the international stage further solidified his reputation as one of the top players in Asia.
In April 2015, Kang made his Major League Baseball debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He quickly made an impact, showcasing his versatility as an infielder. In 2019, Kang was named the starting third baseman for the Pirates, cementing his place in the team's lineup.
During his time in the MLB, Kang was named the National League Rookie of the Month in July 2015. His solid performances on the field earned him recognition among his peers and fans alike.
Off the field, Kang remains grounded in his roots, maintaining close ties with his family in South Korea. He continues to be a source of inspiration for young baseball players in his hometown and beyond.
As Kang's career continues to evolve, fans eagerly await to see what the future holds for this talented athlete from Gwangju, South Korea.