“I’ll try to be a better person” - Hyeseong Kim breaks silence on controversial airport incident with father's debt collector

Having signed with the LA Dodgers in January, Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim has enjoyed a dream rookie year in the major leagues, winning his first ring.

As he made his way back to his home country after the postseason wrapped up, Kim was given a hero's welcome at Incheon International Airport. One individual present in the crowd, however, had no interest in celebrating the 26-year-old's achievements.

Known colloquially as "Mr. Kim from Gocheok" amongst Korean baseball fans, the individual was in attendance to stage a protest against Hyeseong Kim, holding up a banner urging him to repay a debt of 100 million won ($68,000) his estranged father reportedly owes him.

When he first spotted the protester at the airport, Hyeseong did not take kindly to his presence, calling upon security to intervene. Ever since, this has been quite a controversial topic amongst fans.

On Friday, Hyeseong Kim finally broke his silence on the incident via Instagram.

"I would like to apologize to anyone who might have been disappointed by my immature behavior at the airport on November 6th and the attitude shown in the interview afterwards. Actions at the time can't be justified by any words, and they continue to regret and reflect. I apologize to Mr. Kim who was on site, the journalists who were there for coverage, and everyone who watched this scene. I should have greeted you in a good way on my way back home in a year, but at that moment I couldn't express my feelings properly, and said something I shouldn't have done. No excuse, and deep reflection. I'll try to be a better person by doing this. Thank you very much to everyone who watches and supports me when I'm lacking," Kim posted in Korean

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The protest against Hyeseong Kim at Incheon International Airport was not an isolated incident

Though this is the first time most MLB fans stateside learned of the peculiar protest surrounding Hyeseong Kim in his home country, what took place at Incheon International Airport was not an isolated incident.

Even when Hyeseong was plying his trade for the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO, "Mr. Kim from Gocheok" would often turn up to the ballpark to stage similar protests, so much so that fans even began recognizing him.

According to South Korean law, children are not legally obligated to cover debts incurred by living parents, meaning Hyeseong Kim is not liable in any way. In light of this fact, Kim's legal team have taken action against his protester, filing several defamation suits. This has led to multiple convictions and fines. However, these measures have proven to be an ineffective deterrent.

Edited by Raghav Mehta