Seoul: The Hanwha Eagles have announced the signing of slugger Roh Si-hwan to an unprecedented 11-year contract valued at up to 30.7 billion won (US$21.3 million). This landmark deal is the longest and most lucrative in the history of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO).

According to Yonhap News Agency, the agreement, which spans from the 2027 to 2037 seasons, includes various options and a clause that allows Roh to explore a move to Major League Baseball (MLB) through the posting system after the 2026 season. Should Roh choose to return to the KBO, the contract stipulates that he would rejoin Hanwha.

The contract elevates the 25-year-old infielder to the status of the highest-paid player in KBO history, surpassing the cumulative 30.2 billion won secured by SSG Landers veteran Choi Jeong through three separate free-agent contracts. The 11-year term also sets a new precedent in the league, with the previous record being an eight-year contract held by NC Dinos' Park Min-woo in 2022, and later matched by Hanwha pitcher Ryu Hyun-jin in 2024.

In a statement released by the team, Roh expressed his gratitude for the club's recognition of his efforts and their commitment by offering such a historic deal. He affirmed his dedication to helping the Eagles achieve their goal of winning the Korean Series in 2026.