Students apologize, but Baejae High faces backlash amid extreme voices using 'support' as a shield

The entrance of Baejae High School in Seoul has become a battleground for "wreath wars." Condolence wreaths, initially placed to criticize the school's baseball team for inappropriate cheers, have been met with counter-wreaths of support, creating a bizarre spectacle. The local district office has removed hundreds of wreaths due to public complaints and safety concerns.

“

You did nothing wrong. Don't be discouraged.

The controversy began with the Baejae High baseball team's inappropriate cheers during a game. This incident has since spiraled into a political and ideological conflict, overshadowing the need for educational reflection on hate culture. Instead of focusing on recovery and learning, the situation has intensified the turmoil surrounding the students and the school.

“

There have been over 300 complaints (requesting removal), and we had no choice but to remove them due to relevant laws and the children's safety.

Adding to the chaos, civic groups have filed lawsuits against the Korea Baseball Softball Association, which suspended the team for six months. These groups argue the punishment is excessive for minors and could jeopardize their future careers. Meanwhile, alumni associations are appealing for leniency, emphasizing the players' remorse and their planned apology to Gwangju Jeil High and a visit to the May 18th Democratic Cemetery.

“

The players are minors, and it's difficult to see the cheers as malicious. Applying disciplinary action to starting players in their third year of high school, which could affect their future careers, is unfair and unreasonable.

However, the situation remains tense. Supporters of the team, some identifying as alumni, have gathered at the school, voicing their opinions and clashing with critics. This polarization highlights how a sports-related incident can be amplified and distorted by broader societal divisions, leaving the students caught in the crossfire.

“

We sincerely apologize again to the students and alumni of Gwangju Jeil High who were hurt. We earnestly ask for leniency so that this one experience becomes a lifelong lesson and they can grow into more mature individuals.