Korea dominate Japan behind strong pitching and an impressive running game
Korea scored four in the bottom of the first which proved much more than needed since Japan's offence produced only four hits.
World No. 3 Korea didn't waste time to make a statement against Japan in the sides' opening Super Round game. The five-time champions scored four runs in the first at-bat, forcing the world No. 1 programme to make three calls to the bullpen and limited their offence to four hits. Korea won 8-0 and is a legitimate contender for the World Championship game.
Korea's start was impressive. Leadoff hitter Junyong Jeong singled, advanced on a sacrifice bunt and scored on a base hit by designated hitter Beomseok Kim. Jeongmin Kim batted in the second run, and Japan couldn't get out of the jam on a pop fly to third. As the ball fell, it appeared clear that it wouldn't be Japan's night.
Starter Hiruto Yamada left after 1.2 allowing six runs on five hits in 1.2 innings.
Korea's starter Jeongwoon Kim pitched three scoreless innings and allowed only a couple of hits before handing the ball to Youngcheol Yoon, who did even better, allowing only one hit over three innings.
Seohyeon Kim took the mound for the final three outs. He allowed one hit and a walk but made a sensation when the broadcasting speed gun clocked his fastball at 100 miles per hour.
Korea now boast a 2-1 win-loss record and play undefeated Chinese Taipei on Friday while Japan, who have four silver medals to their name but have yet to win the U-18 Baseball World Cup, are 1-2 and will play the Netherlands.
Korea tgakes the field
Japan's dugout al LECOM Park
Japan's starter Jiruto Yamada didn't survive the second inning
Catcher Shion Matsuo expressing concern
Japan's manager Shiro Mabuto during one of multiple trips to the mound
Bomseok Kim delivered once again
Hyunbhin Moon showed bunt early in the game
Jeongmin Kim makes contact
Korea showed they can use the running game
Starter Kim Yeongwoon pitched three scoreless innings
A busy night for Japan's defence
Kim Sunhyeon finished the game with a 100-mile-per-hour fastball