Ben Kim - K-League - The member of Pitch Assist
Ben Kim is a member of the Pitch Assist Team, a newly established department under K-League, dedicated to elevating pitch quality and turf conditions across all league stadiums. His work focuses on creating standardised, climate-resilient and sustainable turf management practices to ensure consistent playing surfaces at the highest professional level.
The Pitch Assist Team was formed in response to the unique challenges faced by Korean football, including extreme climate fluctuations and inconsistent maintenance standards. In 2025, the team conducted inspections across 27 stadiums, evaluating turf health, drainage, root zones, equipment and maintenance data. Based on these assessments, they provide tailored consulting and detailed reports, enabling clubs to make proactive improvements to their pitches.
The team also undertakes benchmarking against national and international standards, visiting elite stadiums such as those in Tokyo to study turf types, maintenance practices, event scheduling and soil care. This global perspective is integrated into practical, data-driven recommendations for K League stadiums. The team also supports the Facilities Development Group (FDG), a quarterly task force of turf specialists, researchers and industry professionals that aligns on equipment standards and climate-resilient strategies.
Beyond inspections and consulting, the team works closely with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and local authorities to secure support and contributes to research on new turf species suited to the Korean climate. Ben also helped launch the “Global Pitch Report,” a Korean-language publication that shares international insights with domestic grounds teams, bridging knowledge gaps and raising professional standards across the industry.
As a part of the first turf related department in K-League, key plans include improving average pitch quality and exploring the introduction of advanced turf equipment to the Korean market. These efforts have positioned the Pitch Assist Team as a strategic leader in Korean sports turf management.
Looking ahead, Ben and the Pitch Assist Team aim to continue strengthening professionalism across the K League by supporting the introduction of standardised pitch guidelines and expanding educational opportunities for stadium groundsman. Their vision is for every stadium, regardless of region or budget, to deliver consistently high-quality playing surfaces.
Ben is shaping the future of turf management in Korean football through the K League’s Pitch Assist Team. As a founding member, he has been key to setting new standards for pitch quality and consistency, combining expertise, global perspective, and sustainable practices. Through inspections, international benchmarking, and guideline development, he has raised turf standards nationwide. His support for groundsmen and advocacy for their recognition are driving positive change, while his integrity and vision position him as a force in building Korean football’s future on strong, green foundations.”
Seung-myeong Ha, The Leader of K-League Pitch Assist Team
