The Korean baseball team, aiming to advance to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), returned to Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 16th, having successfully passed the group stage for the first time since finishing as runners-up in 2009. Although they suffered a heavy defeat, 0-10, against the Dominican Republic in the quarterfinals held at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, they dramatized their path to the final eight by defeating Australia 7-2 in their last group game, a match that required a strict directive of winning by at least five runs while allowing two or fewer runs.

Coach Ryu Ji-hyun reflected on the team's journey in his return interview, expressing both joy and disappointment throughout the process. He emphasized the unforgettable moment when Team Korea united to secure a miraculous win against Australia. Ryu acknowledged that the results of the quarterfinals did not meet the preparations made by the coaching staff and urged the Korean baseball community to reflect on essential aspects such as pitcher development. He also named the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP) as 42-year-old veteran Noh Kyung-eun, praising his exemplary leadership and dedication as the team's oldest player.

Ryu expressed his gratitude towards the players for their efforts and camaraderie during their time together, from the evaluation matches in November to the training in Saipan in January and up to March. He recalled the emotional impact of the victory against Australia, remarking that it was a "life game" for him and added that the positive outcome was a result of collective effort and perseverance from the entire team. Ryu shared that the players had formed meaningful connections, including Korean-born players in the major leagues, reinforcing the importance of a genuine sense of identity as Team Korea in their short time together.