NCT WISH member Sion’s heartfelt appearance at a KIA Tigers home game has turned bittersweet after complaints about disruptive fan behavior overshadowed the event.
On May 24, 2026, the 20-year-old idol took to the mound at Gwangju-KIA Champions Field as part of the team’s “True Fan Relay First Pitch” ceremony. A longtime supporter of the Tigers, Sion’s participation was widely celebrated by baseball and K-pop fans alike especially after the home team edged out the SSG Landers 3-2 in a thrilling matchup.
However, the positive vibe soured quickly.
Multiple attendees took to Korean online communities, including theqoo, to share frustrations about what they described as inconsiderate conduct by some idol fans. Reports claimed groups crowded the aisles while filming Sion, occupied seats they didn’t hold, and left significant trash including cups and food containers behind in the stands.
Several spectators noted that many fans departed shortly after Sion’s ceremonial pitch, suggesting their interest was limited to the idol rather than the full game. Photos of cluttered seating areas circulated widely, with some baseball loyalists saying they stayed to help clean up. Security reportedly stepped in at points to manage aisle blockages and camera equipment that obstructed views.
While Sion himself faces no personal accusations of wrongdoing, the incident has sparked broader conversations about fan responsibility in shared public spaces. Netizens pointed out that enthusiastic support for an idol can unintentionally harm the artist’s reputation when it clashes with established venue etiquette.
This isn’t the first time K-pop fandom culture has collided with sports events, highlighting ongoing tensions between passionate fan communities and traditional audiences. Many commenters expressed sympathy for Sion, noting his genuine connection to the Tigers made the fallout particularly unfortunate.
As the discussion continues online, the episode serves as a reminder that in an era where idols increasingly cross into mainstream spaces, thoughtful behavior from supporters remains key to protecting both the artist’s image and harmonious public experiences.
