Criticism from within and outside the baseball community is intensifying as a video spreads online showing Baejae High School baseball players chanting phrases like "Let's go to Starbucks" and "Tank Day" toward Gwangju Il High School during a Cheongryonggi high school baseball tournament game. The chants have been flagged for potentially trivializing or disparaging the May 18 Democratic Uprising, and voices condemning the erosion of sportsmanship are growing louder. The controversy erupted in earnest when footage surfaced showing multiple players chanting and performing rhythmic motions from the dugout during the game. Gwangju Il High School reportedly lodged an immediate protest on site, and following the game, Baejae High School's head coach and a parents' representative are said to have apologized to the Gwangju Il side.

Baejae High School subsequently issued a statement acknowledging a lack of awareness of historical significance and admitting the behavior violated the spirit of sports. The school announced it would discipline the students involved and conduct ethics education for the entire team. However, many in the baseball community argue this cannot be dismissed simply as a lapse by a few individuals. With the video confirming multiple players participating in the chants together, calls to examine the broader team culture and coaching system are mounting. In particular, demands for accountability from the coaching staff are growing. The head coach at the time stated he was serving as the third-base coach and did not immediately recognize the situation, but critics argue he cannot avoid responsibility for failing to stop the chants and behavior emanating from the dugout. High school baseball officials and fans alike emphasize that player character education is just as important as athletic performance, stressing that even cheers meant to motivate should never invoke a region's historical trauma or mock opponents. Some have also argued that as players aspiring for professional careers, their character and sportsmanship should be evaluated alongside their skills.

Meanwhile, the controversy has extended to a debate over the school's apology. Online, claims have emerged that the publicly released apology letter shows traces of AI-generated writing, fueling skepticism about its sincerity. However, this remains an online allegation requiring further verification. The Korea Baseball Softball Association is also reported to be looking into the matter, drawing attention to the possibility of a future investigation and disciplinary action. Within the baseball community, calls are growing louder for a comprehensive overhaul of student-athletes' historical awareness, character education, and in-stadium cheering culture in the wake of this incident.