Hyun Joo-yeop, a legend of Korean basketball and a broadcaster, has shared his feelings about the unfair controversies and the pain they have caused him. He revealed that although a correction was issued by the Press Arbitration Commission regarding allegations of 'work negligence, dual employment, and abuse of power' that arose last year, the stigma of public opinion has not been erased.
On the 4th, Hyun Joo-yeop confessed his feelings through his YouTube channel, stating, "If there is something to apologize for, I would gladly do so, but it is not true."
In fact, the allegations were confirmed to be false, and the media outlet issued a correction. However, the sensational frame of 'abusive coach' remains ingrained in the public's memory. The correction article did not receive the same level of attention.
Hyun Joo-yeop expressed, "What sin did the kids commit?" as he shared the pain his family endured.
His son was hospitalized for several months due to malicious comments and societal scrutiny. Both he and his wife also had to receive psychiatric treatment. He confessed, "If I stop taking medication, it can lead to extreme thoughts," revealing the collapse of his daily life.
Known to the public as a 'big eater,' he lost over 30kg due to stress and health deterioration. In a situation where he couldn't even eat one proper meal a day, the past 'big eater Hyun Joo-yeop' no longer exists.
He lamented that his son's dream of playing basketball was also crushed due to societal stigma.
This is seen as a case that illustrates the harm of unverified reporting and public opinion trials.
The media outlet that published the article last year issued a correction stating, "The allegations of dual employment and work negligence were not true," but Hyun Joo-yeop is still fighting against cold public perceptions.
Hyun Joo-yeop expressed his desire to return to broadcasting, stating, "I want to show that not everyone in the world is like that."
He revealed a desperate wish not just to resume his career, but to restore his broken family and life.
Park Chan-hyung, MK Sports Reporter
