On October 9, during Game 1 of the playoffs between Samsung Lions and SSG Landers at Incheon SSG Landers Field, Choi stepped onto the mound wearing sunglasses and exuding a “cool” attitude. However, his decision to hurl a powerful pitch at a child batter drew instant condemnation online. Critics accused him of prioritizing image over safety.
The controversy deepened when the child’s mother publicly expressed concern: “I thought the event would be safe, but seeing it now, it was frightening.”
Although Choi later apologized, citing nervousness and a lack of consideration for the young batter, netizens were not convinced. Clips circulated online showing him laughing and chatting with players after the pitch — seemingly indifferent to the safety of the child involved. The absence of direct interaction or visible concern toward the child fueled accusations about his character, leading to what many are now calling an “integrity controversy.”
The incident’s fallout has also impacted his scheduled appearance on After School Theater Club, an upcoming variety program hosted by Kim Tae-ri. Choi Hyun-wook was reportedly cast to appear alongside Kim Tae-ri in her first-ever regular variety show, set in a rural elementary school where the actress leads acting workshops with children.
Online voices are now questioning his suitability for a show involving children, with comments like: “How can someone who showed no concern for a child work in a program focused on bonding with students?”
As doubts mount over whether the casting was based on personal connections, even Kim Tae-ri faces criticism for her association with Choi Hyun-wook— despite having no role in his actions. The controversy places pressure on the show’s production team to reconsider casting decisions, especially as public sentiment hardens.
Although Choi Hyun-wook’s appearance on the program has not been officially confirmed, the incident has already damaged his public image, potentially affecting future projects. What began as a single misstep on the baseball field is now evolving into a broader question of public trust and celebrity responsibility.
“It wasn’t just a bad pitch. It was a pitch that missed the mark in every way,” one netizen remarked — summing up the mood surrounding the young actor’s latest controversy.
Sources: Daum
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