Baseball Star Kim Hye-seong Apologizes for Father's Debt Controversy

Professional baseball player Kim Hye-seong has issued a late apology regarding the 'debt-to-you' controversy involving his father.

The issue resurfaced on the SBS program 'Curious Stories Y' aired on November 21st. The claimant, identified as 'Mr. Kim,' alleges that Kim Hye-seong's father, Mr. A, operated an entertainment establishment in 2009 and failed to repay a 100 million won deposit for music services, amounting to 120 million won in total.

Mr. Kim claims that Mr. A has not repaid the debt for 16 years. He began protesting with banners and solo demonstrations after learning of Kim Hye-seong's professional baseball debut in 2017. While Mr. A promised repayment, he allegedly failed to follow through and even filed a defamation lawsuit against Mr. Kim, who received a fine.

Mr. A, through the broadcast, stated that he faced significant debt due to bankruptcy, making immediate repayment difficult. He claimed to have repaid 90 million won of the debt, with 30 million won remaining. However, the claimant's lawyer indicated that the total amount owed, including interest, could reach 410 million won.

Amidst Mr. A's personal bankruptcy proceedings, a settlement was reached through mediation, agreeing that Mr. A would pay an additional 50 million won by December 20th.

Following the growing controversy, Kim Hye-seong released a lengthy statement on his social media. He specifically apologized for his emotional reaction and inappropriate behavior towards the claimant who was protesting at Incheon International Airport upon his return on November 6th.

"I bow my head and apologize to everyone who may have been disappointed by my immature actions at the airport and my subsequent interview attitude," Kim Hye-seong stated. "My actions that day cannot be excused by any words, and I continue to regret and reflect upon them." He also revealed that the claimant had been visiting his school since he was a high school student and had been protesting publicly for years, even proposing to repay the debt himself in 2019, which was refused.

He added, "As a son, I have done my utmost financially, including using my signing bonus and salary, out of a sense of family responsibility. I hoped it would help those who were harmed by my father's debt." He concluded, "I should have greeted everyone with a better image upon my return after a year, but in that moment, I could not control my emotions and behaved inappropriately. There is no excuse, and I deeply regret it. I will strive to become a better person through this experience."

Netizens expressed a mix of understanding and criticism. Many commented, "It's fortunate he finally spoke up," "It must have been tough for him too, even though it's his father's issue," and "I hope he shows better behavior going forward." However, some also pointed out, "His reaction at the airport was regrettable and emotional."