San Francisco Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee found himself briefly detained by immigration officials following an incident at Los Angeles International Airport, resulting in intervention from California Representative Nancy Pelosi. On Wednesday, Customs and Border Protection officials stopped the 27-year-old athlete after he realized he had forgotten essential travel documents in South Korea, according to Pelosi’s office.
In response to the situation, Pelosi stated, “Our office is actively working with the Giants organization, our Congressional partners, and federal liaisons to resolve this situation and secure Mr. Lee’s release expeditiously.” Thankfully, Lee was released shortly after his detention, as the Giants later confirmed. The organization attributed the matter to a “brief travel issue at LAX due to a paperwork issue,” emphasizing that the situation was promptly clarified with the appropriate authorities.
Lee’s agent, Scott Boras, assured the media that the incident was “not anything political.” The conversation surrounding detentions by federal agents, however, has escalated, particularly in light of the immigration policies during former President Trump’s administration.
Lee arrived in Los Angeles in anticipation of participating in the Giants’ FanFest in San Ramon on Saturday, where fans will have the opportunity to engage with players and coaches.
Jung Hoo Lee hails from a unique background, born in Nagoya, Japan, while his father, the renowned Korean baseball star Jong Beom Lee, played for the Chunichi Dragons. Lee gained significant recognition in his home country as a player for the Kiwoom Heroes for seven years before making his major league debut in March 2024. After a successful stint, he signed a lucrative six-year contract worth $113 million with the Giants in December 2023.
Looking ahead, the Giants will commence spring training for the 2026 season in early February in Scottsdale, Arizona, where fans eagerly await the team’s upcoming events and player interactions. Jung Hoo Lee’s journey from a noteworthy player in South Korea to a key figure in Major League Baseball continues to capture the attention and support of fans.