Oh Seung-hwan Opens Up About 'Stone Buddha' Nickname Origin and Emotional Retirement Reason

Baseball legend Oh Seung-hwan appeared on tvN STORY's variety show 'What Are We Going to Keep?' revealing the story behind his 'Stone Buddha' nickname and the deeply personal reason for his retirement.

Oh Seung-hwan shared that his stoic demeanor, which earned him the nickname 'Stone Buddha,' stemmed from his father's strict upbringing. He recalled an incident in middle school where his father reprimanded him for laughing and goofing around on the sports field, instilling a sense of seriousness that carried over to his baseball career.

Having concluded his 20-year career and announced his retirement two months prior, Oh Seung-hwan cited his mother's passing as the primary catalyst for his decision. He confessed that after her death, his routine for training and work became disrupted. He recounted the shock of having to abruptly return from overseas spring training upon hearing of his mother's critical condition, noting that she had no prior chronic illness.

Visibly emotional, he remembered his mother as his 'number one fan.' When asked about his feelings on his retirement day, Oh Seung-hwan expressed gratitude for the immense love and the grand farewell ceremony, stating, 'I felt like I had done well.' He believed 'congratulations' was the appropriate sentiment for his retirement, calling it a 'happy retirement.' He further shared that during the ceremony, he shed tears thinking of his mother, believing she was watching from above and would be pleased and proud.

Parks Seri empathized with his experience, relating it to the shared lives of athletes' families. Looking ahead to his second chapter, Oh Seung-hwan expressed his desire to 'show more smiling faces from now on.'

Korean netizens reacted with empathy, commenting, 'So that's why Oh Seung-hwan the 'Stone Buddha' became so stoic because of his father's words. It's touching,' and 'His feelings for his mother are so touching. Please show more smiles next time!' Many also expressed their support, saying, 'I can't even imagine the effort and sacrifice behind a legend's retirement. Always cheering for you!'