Actor issues second apology after near-accident with child batter during KBO playoff game

Actor Choi Hyun-wook has formally apologized again following controversy over his high-speed ceremonial pitch during a recent KBO postseason game that nearly struck a child batter.

A sincere apology to the child and family

On October 13, his agency Gold Medalist told Dispatch, "Choi Hyun-wook feels deep responsibility for what happened after the ceremonial pitch event." The statement acknowledged that greater caution should have been exercised to prevent potential safety risks.

"We sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people," the agency continued. "In particular, we deeply regret the unexpected situation that frightened the child batter and their guardian."

The agency confirmed that they have since contacted the family through the baseball club. "A handwritten apology letter was delivered, and the family has graciously accepted his apology," they added.

Agency admits fault, promises review

Gold Medalist also took responsibility for inadequate on-site management. "We recognize that there was a lack of careful coordination and oversight at the event," the agency said. "We will review and strengthen our internal procedures to ensure that such incidents never happen again."

The incident at SSG Landers Field

The controversy arose after Choi threw the ceremonial first pitch at the KBO League playoff opener held at Incheon SSG Landers Field on October 9. During the event, a child fan stood at the plate as the batter — but Choi's fastball veered dangerously close to the child's head.

The moment alarmed both commentators and fans, with the broadcast crew exclaiming, "That was close!"

Choi later addressed the issue directly through the fan platform Bubble on October 10, writing, "I should have thrown softly since a young child was standing there, but I was nervous and didn't think clearly. I'm truly sorry."

Former baseball player turned actor

Before his acting career, Choi was an elite baseball player, serving as a catcher until a elbow injury in high school forced him to quit the sport.

He has since built a strong acting career, most recently starring in tvN's The Dragon Prince (2025).

Choi concluded that he will "take this incident as a lesson" and "be more mindful of safety and responsibility" in future public appearances.