KEVIN, a member of the K-pop group THE BOYZ, has issued a formal apology after being caught on camera supporting a different team than the one he was invited to throw the first pitch for at a baseball game, sparking controversy.
On April 19th, KEVIN, alongside fellow member ERIC, took part in the ceremonial first pitch and bat at the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League game between KT Wiz and Kiwoom Heroes at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul's Guro District. However, controversy arose when a fan captured KEVIN on their phone's notepad writing, "I hope the day comes when I can sing the national anthem in Gwangju, the hometown of the Kia Tigers," showing support for a team not playing in the game.
In response, KEVIN took to THE BOYZ's official social media on April 22nd to express his sincere apologies to baseball fans and THE B (THE BOYZ's fandom), stating, "I sincerely apologize to the fans of baseball and THE B. I am grateful for the warm welcome and the precious opportunity given by the Kiwoom officials on April 19th. However, my thoughtless words and actions at that moment caused discomfort to many."
Furthermore, he added, "It was careless of me to mention another team during such a significant moment marking the start of the game, and I am truly sorry to those who were offended by my actions. I have already apologized to my fellow member ERIC, who also placed great importance on the first pitch, and I extend my apologies once again to the fans of Kiwoom. This incident has taught me how much impact words and actions can have. I will act more carefully in the future."
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)