'Won Tae-in profanity controversy' sparks anger in Yeom Gyang-ryang, yet "I understand; there's one thing Tae-in needs to learn..." offers advice [Jamsil field]

*This content was translated by AI.

LG Twins have unintentionally found themselves at the center of a controversy. This is because the fallout from the profanity controversy involving Won Tae-in (26, Samsung Lions) landed not on his teammates but on the LG coaching staff.

LG manager Yeom Kyung-yeop (58) met with reporters on the 21st ahead of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League home game against Hanwha Eagles at Jamsil Stadium in Songpa-gu, Seoul, and addressed the 'Won Tae-in controversy'.

Manager Yeom stated, "I don't understand why our coach got involved. I was a bit angry, but when I see (Won) Tae-in, I understand." He added, "This incident will likely bring many realizations and serve as an opportunity for him to grow to the next level."

The incident in question occurred during the top of the 4th inning of the away game between Samsung and LG at Daegu Samsung Lions Park on the 19th. After consecutive sacrifice flies extended the score to 0-3, a ground ball with one out and runners on second and third led to an additional run. The broadcast captured a scene where Won Tae-in appeared to express strong dissatisfaction toward second baseman Ryu Ji-hyuk. It seemed as though he was complaining about his own errors increasing, as if he had chosen first base instead of home plate. During this process, mouth movements that raised suspicions of profanity were broadcast, and senior player Ryu Ji-hyuk made an expression of bewilderment.

In response, Kang Min-ho took to his social networking service (SNS) to clarify the situation. "It seems there is some misunderstanding regarding the current situation, so I am leaving this to correct it. The behavior shown by (Won) Tae-in in today's game was a result of him venting to (Ryu) Ji-hyuk because the LG (Jeong Su-seong) third-base coach's signals were too large, making it difficult to concentrate," he explained, before emphasizing, "There is not a single ill-mannered junior in our Samsung Lions. As a senior member of the team, I wanted to state this clearly to prevent further misunderstanding." However, the explanation remained unsatisfactory, as the unintended fallout had targeted the opposing coach.

According to StarNews, the intent was for Won Tae-in to blame himself for being overly sensitive after allowing a run. Immediately after the game on the 19th, LG captain Park Hae-min (36) reportedly called Won Tae-in directly to ask what part of the situation was problematic. It appears the two engaged in a conversation with the intention of resolving any misunderstanding. Park Hae-min was also reported to have said after hearing Won Tae-in's explanation, "I understand your position well. I will go into the dugout and talk about it."

Manager Yeom revealed the reason for speaking up: "Actually, I intended to let it pass without saying anything, but Coach (Jeong) Su-seong suddenly stepped forward. Since our coach was involved, I felt it was not right for me to leave without saying anything."

However, it is still difficult to say that the misunderstanding has been fully resolved. Manager Yeom stated, "One more thing Tae-in needs to learn is that while he is doing his best in the game, the coaching staff and all players participating in that game are also doing their best just as much as he is." He continued, "He has always been a hardworking player and has been a player with positive meaning so far, so I believe this could become an opportunity for him to become an even better player."

Manager Yeom further added, "I am angry, but this is something that can naturally arise during a game, so I understand and think it is best to move forward positively." He also urged, "Since this is the first time for our Twins fans, I think it would be best if they could understand with generosity."

Meanwhile, Won Tae-in is scheduled to stand before reporters ahead of the home game against SSG Landers today to directly state his official position regarding this controversy.

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*This content was translated by AI.