LOS ANGELES — When Hyeseong Kim steps into the batter’s box at Dodger Stadium, the stadium speakers play “Comet” by Younha. This choice has resonated with fans, especially those familiar with anime and K-pop, as the song was featured in the anime Bleach and is known as “Houkiboshi” in its original Japanese version.
A Song with Deep Roots
Of course, the song choice makes sense: the speedy Kim is known around the team as “the Comet.” But the song hits on multiple levels. Comet is the Korean rendition of Younha’s breakout Japanese single “Houkiboshi,” which gained popularity through its inclusion in Bleach. Younha, a South Korean singer-songwriter, began her career in Japan, earning the nickname “Oricon Comet” for her success on the Japanese music charts. She later re-recorded the song in Korean, titling it “Hyeseong,” which translates to “Comet”. The song’s themes of perseverance and hope have made it a fitting anthem for Kim’s journey.
Hyeseong Kim’s Journey to the Majors
Born on January 27, 1999, in Goyang, South Korea, Hyeseong Kim began his professional baseball career with the Nexen Heroes (later Kiwoom Heroes) in the KBO League. Over eight seasons, he established himself as a versatile infielder, earning four KBO Golden Glove Awards and leading the league in stolen bases in 2021. In December 2024, the Heroes posted Kim to Major League Baseball, and he signed a three-year, $12.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. After starting the 2025 season in Triple-A with the Oklahoma City Comets, Kim was called up to the majors on May 3. He made an immediate impact, recording his first MLB hit on May 5 and hitting his first home run on May 14. With his speed, hitting, and glove work, Kim is fast becoming a fan favorite at Chavez Ravine.
A Cultural Connection
Kim’s choice of “Comet” as his walk-up song has created a cultural bridge between his Korean heritage and his new American fanbase. The song’s popularity among anime fans and its uplifting message have made it a crowd favorite at Dodger Stadium. Fans have taken to social media to express their appreciation, with some noting the song’s nostalgic value and others highlighting its inspirational lyrics. The connection between the song and Kim’s name, as “Hyeseong” means “comet” in Korean, adds another layer of significance.
Conclusion
Hyeseong Kim’s selection of “Comet” as his walk-up song is more than a personal choice; it’s a reflection of his journey and a nod to his roots. The song’s resonance with fans has helped endear Kim to the Dodger faithful, making his at-bats a moment of shared cultural appreciation. As Kim continues to make his mark in Major League Baseball, “Comet” serves as a fitting soundtrack to his rising star.
