Lee Jong-beom said, "I knew I would be criticized." Nevertheless, he took off his uniform.
On the 30th, former KT Wiz first-team coach Lee Jong-beom accepted the director position for the new season of the JTBC entertainment program 'Strongest Baseball', abruptly resigning during the season.
The unprecedented decision of a current coaching staff member leaving the team for entertainment has elicited mixed reactions from baseball fans.
Previously, after discussions with the club, Lee Jong-beom decided to resign and joined as the new head of JTBC's 'Strongest Baseball', which is scheduled to air in September. He emphasized, "I wanted to lead retired players in new challenges. Even in entertainment, I am serious about baseball," expressing his desire for a 'baseball boom' rather than just simple entertainment activities.
However, the fans' reactions were not easy. The sudden decision to step down as a coach during the season led to criticisms such as "He betrayed the baseball world" and "He abandoned the team for entertainment." The KT club also acknowledged the significant backlash, stating, "We apologize for the inconvenience caused to the club and fans."
However, Director Lee Jong-beom did not back down. He explained his choice with the words, "Even if I get criticized, I won't regret it if I can promote baseball."
Whether the current criticism will be remembered as 'another challenge' over time now depends on the baseball he will show.
[Kim Seung-hye, MK Sports Reporter]
