Actor Choi Hyun-wook is at the center of controversy again after a year. Following last year's apology for smoking on the street and littering cigarette butts, he faced criticism from some fans this time for a "fastball ceremonial first pitch." But the quick apology and attitude of contrition have also prompted lukewarm responses of "let's watch now."
On the 9th at Incheon SSG Landers Field, the KBO League playoff first game (SSG Landers vs Samsung Lions) took place. Choi Hyun-wook, who threw the ceremonial first pitch, appeared wearing sunglasses and hip fashion, drawing attention. However, the ball he threw strongly missed the catcher's mitt and surprised those present. In particular, when the ball thrown toward the child fan who came out for the ceremonial pitch went farther and faster than expected, the stands erupted with concerns that "it could have led to a serious accident."
Some fans criticized, "It was a ceremonial pitch, but there was a child in front; he threw too hard," and "he didn't directly apologize to the child." As the controversy grew, on the 10th Choi Hyun-wook posted on his fan platform, "I was really nervous so the ball slipped. If I can contact the ceremonial batter and their parents, I will definitely apologize," immediately offering a statement. He added, "I should have thrown slowly and from close in front of the child, but I didn't think of that. I'm truly sorry," repeatedly bowing his head.
Afterward, when the child's mother who served as the ceremonial batter left a comment saying, "I believed it would be conducted safely, but seeing it now is dizzying," Choi Hyun-wook delivered an apology letter in person and again expressed sincerity. His agency, Gold Medalist, said on the 13th, "Actor Choi Hyun-wook feels a deep sense of responsibility for the situation at the scene," and added, "He delivered an apology letter to the ceremonial batter and guardian, and the other side graciously understood."
The agency also added, "We recognize shortcomings in on-site management and prior coordination, and we will inspect internal processes to prevent the same incident from recurring."
Earlier, Choi Hyun-wook faced public backlash in October last year over smoking on the street and illegally discarding cigarette butts. At the time he apologized in a handwritten letter, saying, "I disappointed you with my thoughtless actions," and "I will become more mature." Although he has been embroiled in controversy again after a year, some internet users noted that because there was an immediate apology and direct acceptance of responsibility this time, "anyone can make a mistake," "if he already apologized twice, now we should watch," and "stop the needless witch hunt."
Having admitted his wrongdoing and bowed his head, attention is on whether Choi Hyun-wook can use this incident as an opportunity to grow once again into a more cautious actor.
[Photo] OSEN DB
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