25.11.09.Today News : Kim Hye-seong Faces Public Backlash After JTBC ‘Newsroom’ Interview — Father’s Debt Scandal Reignites
📍Over 1,000 hate comments flood JTBC preview video as debate erupts over moral responsibility
LA Dodgers player Kim Hye-seong, who returned home in glory after winning the World Series in his first Major League season, is now under fire after his JTBC “Newsroom” interview preview sparked outrage online. The controversy reignited public anger over his father’s long-standing debt scandal, dividing opinions among fans and viewers alike.


🔹 From World Series Glory to Public Backlash
On November 8, JTBC released a teaser video of Kim Hye-seong’s “Newsroom” interview. Wearing a formal suit and smiling, he shared lighthearted moments about Shohei Ohtani and Son Heung-min.
However, within hours, the comment section turned hostile. Over a thousand critical comments accused him of “smiling despite his father’s unpaid debts” and “acting like a hero while ignoring the victims.”
The issue traces back to long-standing allegations that Kim’s father borrowed money from acquaintances and failed to repay them.
🔹 Airport Incident Rekindles ‘Debt Scandal’
Two days earlier, on November 6, Kim was caught in a confrontation at Incheon International Airport. During an interview, he pointed toward a man and said, “I’ll continue once that person leaves.”
The man, identified as a creditor known online as “Gocheok Mr. Kim,” held protest banners accusing Kim’s father of bankruptcy and moral corruption. He has been fined multiple times for similar acts, including protests at Kim’s games.
Videos of the incident went viral, prompting debate about whether Kim’s reaction was dismissive or justifiable.
🔹 Legal vs. Moral Responsibility — Fans Divided
Under Korean law, family members are not liable for a debtor’s obligations. Yet public opinion remains split. Some argue Kim should “show moral responsibility” as the son of the debtor, while others insist “he cannot be held accountable for his father’s actions.”
Online discussions grew intense: “With his championship bonus worth 680 million KRW, he could have helped victims,” one user wrote. Another countered, “He earned that money himself — he doesn’t owe anyone legally or morally.”
🔹 JTBC Interview Draws Fire for Avoiding Key Issues
The full “Newsroom” broadcast on November 9 focused exclusively on Kim’s baseball journey. Kim expressed gratitude, saying, “Winning the World Series in my debut season is an unforgettable honor.”
But neither the airport controversy nor the debt scandal was addressed. Viewers criticized JTBC for sidestepping critical questions, accusing the network of “polishing his image” instead of confronting public concerns.
🔹 No Further Statement from Kim’s Side
Kim’s representatives stated, “There is nothing new to add beyond what has already been reported.” Despite calls for clarification, no additional statement has been issued by Kim or the Dodgers organization.
Public opinion continues to be sharply divided — between those defending his right to privacy and those demanding accountability toward the victims.

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