Tensions are mounting between the Korea Baseball Organization and its players "over the latter’s decision not to participate in July’s All-Star Game," according to Jung Min-ho of the KOREA TIMES. The boycott is in answer to the sport’s authorities decision "against adding another club to the league." The "crux of the problem" is the KBO has failed to convince fans, players and organizations "that there were good enough reasons" not to create a tenth team. Korean Broadcasting System sports commentator Lee Yong-chul said, "The fans want it and local governments are stepping up to help. Besides, running the league with an odd number of sides will certainly create huge problems. So, why not? The bottom line is they have to make a case for their decision" (KOREA TIMES, 6/26). In Seoul, Chun Sung-woo reported that an association of retired baseball players issued a statement "supporting active players' declaration to boycott" the All-Star Game. The group "denounced the KBO board," which consists of club chief executives. The board had listed their reasons as lack of players and concern for lowering the quality of local pro baseball. The retired players called the board's decision "irresponsible and anachronistic" (KOREA HERALD, 6/26).
