Volleyball Legend Kim Yeon-koung Stays Calm Amidst Referee Controversy in 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung'

Volleyball legend Kim Yeon-koung has demonstrated her unwavering leadership as a director.

In the MBC entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung,' aired on the 19th, Kim Yeon-koung led her team in a match against Japan's Shujitsu High School.

Given Kim Yeon-koung's history of fierce determination in matches against Japan, even vowing never to lose, expectations were high for her directorial debut in a Japan-Korea showdown. Her memorable victory against Japan in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics is still vivid in many people's minds.

As a director, Kim Yeon-koung managed the team with a calm demeanor, distinct from her player days. Her team secured the first two sets smoothly, but in the third set, the younger Shujitsu High School team mounted a strong comeback.

Notably, when a point was seemingly scored by Korea but ruled in favor of Japan, Kim Yeon-koung promptly questioned the referee's decision. When the call wasn't overturned, she quickly substituted the libero to shift the momentum. She calmly stated, "It's part of the game, and mistakes can happen," while veteran player Pyo Seung-ju also emphasized, "Referee errors can occur anytime. We need to focus on winning this third set."

Netizens who watched the broadcast praised her leadership, commenting, "Director Kim Yeon-koung has a lot to teach us," "It's amazing how she maintains composure even in crisis situations," and "This is the true image of a leader."