FOCUS ON - This Week's Highlight
The blue and red uniform marked with number 18 was hanging in the locker room of Ajinomoto Stadium, waiting for Kento HASHIMOTO.
When Hashimoto saw that, he said, "It was the same when I entered Ajinomoto, there was something exhilarating about it," and continued.
"It's a significant number, so I don't think I've truly made it my own yet. However, seeing many people wearing the number 18 in the stadium reminded me of the joy of being able to fight while carrying such a wonderful number."
Then, he came on as a substitute in the 37th minute of the second half against FC Machida Zelvia. He said about the uniform he wore, "It's the best. It really feels right." Although he only played for about 10 minutes, he stepped onto the pitch at Ajinomoto for the first time in four and a half seasons.
"We were in a situation where we were losing 0-1, so I had a strong desire to create chances. However, depending on the situation, I also have a strong desire to fulfill my role first and contribute to the team's victory."
In the 6th grade, I was led by Naohiro ISHIKAWA and entered Ajinomoto together. What I inherited from my idol was the jersey number and the unfulfilled desire to conquer the league. The story woven by the blue and red number 18 has begun to move again.
(Titles omitted in the text)
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
"We asked the players about their thoughts on ○○"
A project where we ask players questions gathered from 2025 SOCIO and OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP members, titled 'We Asked the Players About Their Concerns.'
This time's "What's on my mind" features Baek INHWAN, who continues to learn about Japanese soccer and culture. We asked the rising popular Korean defender some intriguing questions.
※Some of the questions we received may have been edited for clarity. Thank you for your understanding.
Q: How did you study Japanese? Also, what are some things you are glad about after coming to Japan? (Handle name: Kopii)
A: At first, I took lessons with a Japanese teacher for 30 minutes, five times a week for a year. I was happy to make Japanese seniors and friends. After I became able to speak Japanese, I no longer had difficulties when going out to eat.
Q: I heard you were watching the J-League even before coming to Japan. Were there any players you were interested in or liked? (Handle name: Tomuko)
A: Yuto NAGATOMO. I watched his play in the World Cup, and since I also have running ability as a characteristic, I really respect his work rate and play. I am truly happy and honored to be able to play on the same team now.
Q: Who is the player you get along with the best in Tokyo? (Handle name: Koguma-san, Ruutan-san)
A: It's Kanta DOI. We went to eat Korean food during the off-season and visited the Korean town in Shin-Okubo.
Q: Do you have any feelings associated with the number 66? (Handle name: Minachin)
A: My older brother, who is one year older than me, played soccer in the K4 League in Korea until last season, wearing the number 66. Since he retired last season, I wanted to wear that number and play.
Q: I often travel to Korea, do you have any recommended places? (Handle name: KAY)
A: There is a delicious octopus dish called Sannakji, which is a specialty of Busan.
Q: What are the differences between the J.League and the K.League? (Handle name: Mame)
A: The K.League is strong in physicality and ball contests, while Japan seems to emphasize technique. Personally, I played on artificial turf until high school, so it took me time to get used to natural grass after coming to Japan.
Q, Hello, I am an FC Tokyo fan! Where do you go for fun on holidays? I want to quickly do 'Shasha Shasha' with player Baek In-hwan! (I am a fan of FC Tokyo. Where do you go to have fun on your days off? I want to quickly do Shasha Shasha with player Baek.) (Handle name: Yuffie)
A, What is Shasha Shasha? (After receiving an explanation) I see. I will watch the video and make sure I can do it anytime when we win.
◇Baek INHWAN Profile
Date of Birth: 2005 September 15
Height/Weight: 178cm/68kg
Hometown: South Korea
National Team History: U-18 South Korea National Team
Favorite Food: Samgyeopsal, Kimchi Stew
Favorite Sports Besides Soccer: Table Tennis, Bowling
Player profile is here
