Former Kiwoom Heroes Executive Turns Pitcher for Melbourne Aces

50-year-old 허민 makes surprise career shift from business to baseball, faces off against Hanwha Eagles in Australia

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Former Kiwoom Heroes board member 허민, 50, has taken an unexpected turn in his career, transitioning from the corporate world to become a pitcher for the Melbourne Aces in the Australian Baseball League. After facing criticism for past behavior, 허민 is now making headlines for his performance on the mound, including a memorable strikeout against a Hanwha Eagles player during a recent practice game.

Why it matters

허민's story highlights an unconventional career change and a second act in baseball, drawing attention to his passion for the sport despite past controversies. His journey also shines a light on the diversity of the Melbourne Aces roster and the global reach of professional baseball.

The details

After a career in business, including roles with Kiwoom Heroes and Neople, 허민 successfully tried out for the Melbourne Aces in January 2026, earning a spot on their roster. During a February 15th practice game against the Hanwha Eagles, he entered as a relief pitcher in the 6th inning with the score tied 4-4. Despite initially walking the first batter, 허민 battled back and faced off against a promising Hanwha hitter, navigating a controversial call to ultimately record a strikeout.

  • In January 2026, 허민 successfully tried out for the Melbourne Aces.
  • On February 15, 2026, 허민 entered as a relief pitcher in the 6th inning against the Hanwha Eagles.

The players

허민

A 50-year-old former corporate executive, including roles with the Kiwoom Heroes and Neople, who is now pursuing a career as a pitcher for the Melbourne Aces in the Australian Baseball League.

Melbourne Aces

An Australian professional baseball team that 허민 is currently playing for, known for its diverse roster of players from various backgrounds.

Hanwha Eagles

A professional baseball team in South Korea that faced off against 허민 and the Melbourne Aces in a recent practice game.

Kim Tae-kyun

A Hanwha Eagles legend and current commentator who remarked on 허민's dedication and passion for baseball.

Peter Moran

The manager of the Melbourne Aces.

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What they’re saying

“He has a great passion for baseball.”

— Kim Tae-kyun, Hanwha Eagles legend and commentator

What’s next

The Melbourne Aces and Hanwha Eagles are scheduled to face off again in the coming weeks, providing an opportunity for 허민 to further showcase his skills on the mound.

The takeaway

허민's unexpected transition from the corporate world to professional baseball demonstrates the enduring power of passion and the ability to reinvent oneself, even later in life. His story serves as an inspiration for those seeking to pursue their dreams, regardless of past challenges or unconventional paths.