Lee Jong-beom Regrets 'Strong Baseball,' Opens Up About Vitiligo

Commentator Lee Jong-beom has apologized and expressed regret regarding the controversy surrounding his past participation in the entertainment program 'Strong Baseball'. He received criticism from baseball fans for his unusual decision to leave the KT Wiz team mid-season last year after being offered the managerial position for 'Strong Baseball' while serving as a coach. Lee Jong-beom stated at the time, "​I was short-sighted and regretted it a lot," adding, "​It was the wrong choice, so I have to accept it. However, the aftermath was very difficult."

Lee Jong-beom also revealed that he suffered from vitiligo due to stress, saying, "​I regret that I couldn't do more as a coach." He also expressed, "​I apologize to the players KT Wiz had an eye on," and showed his determination to resolve the questions surrounding his evaluation as a coach.

Lee Jong-beom has stated that he dreams of returning to the baseball field. He expressed, "​I am continuously considering ways to return to the field," and showed a strong will to return, saying, "​If I get a call, I will go anywhere, no matter what." He also resolved to work harder to gain recognition from fans and baseball officials.

Meanwhile, the JTBC entertainment program 'Strong Baseball', which Lee Jong-beom joined, was temporarily concluded in February due to legal disputes with the production team of 'Flaming Baseball' and low viewership ratings. The court had previously ruled that the production and broadcasting of content implying 'Flaming Baseball' was a follow-up season to 'Strong Baseball' constituted unfair competition, and issued a decision prohibiting its production and content release.