Chimaek, chants and the seventh-inning stretch: how to behave at a KBO game

A KBO game is less a sporting event than a three-hour singalong with a ballgame attached. A few things make the night much easier.

Sit on the right side

Each team has its own cheering section behind the dugout, led by a cheer captain and cheerleaders on a small stage. Buy seats in the section of the team you want to sing for; the other side is quieter and sings for the other team. Undecided? Pick the home side, and book ahead for weekend games — those seats go first.

Every player has a song

Batters walk up to their own chant, and the whole section sings it every time they come to the plate. The lyrics are simple on purpose. Stand when the people around you stand, clap the thunder sticks on the beat, and by the third inning you will have the tune whether you want it or not.

Chimaek is the point

Chicken and beer — chimaek — is the official food of Korean baseball. Outside food is allowed, so most people pick up a box of fried chicken at the gate. Beer is sold inside in paper cups; cans and glass bottles are not allowed through the gates.

The break after the fifth

Korea's version of the seventh-inning stretch comes after the fifth inning: a cleaning-time break while the grounds crew rakes the infield and the cheerleaders run their biggest routine. Refill, find the bathroom, or buy the headband everyone else is wearing.

Small courtesies

Foul balls are yours to keep. Keep the aisle clear during play, take your rubbish with you, and do not leave early — the ninth inning is when the section is loudest.