Breaking News: Jung Hoo Lee, the rising MLB star from South Korea, has reportedly received a surge of threatening messages after sharing a controversial video featuring a 98-year-old veteran driving a tank over a Tesla. The symbolic act, widely interpreted as a protest against Elon Musk and the increasing influence of Big Tech, has ignited an online firestorm — with Lee now caught in the crosshairs of an unexpected digital battle.
The video, originally shared by an independent journalist, quickly went viral due to its dramatic visual of the elderly veteran crushing a Tesla Model 3 while holding a sign that read, “For freedom, not control.” When Jung Hoo Lee reposted the clip with a brief caption — “Respect to those who stand for something” — it was seen by millions within hours. While many praised his show of admiration for the veteran’s bold gesture, others, especially Tesla supporters and Elon Musk’s vocal fan base, took offense.
Shortly after the post went live, Lee’s social media accounts were flooded with hateful messages, including several threats laced with disturbing language. Some accused him of disrespecting innovation and progress, while others took it as a personal attack on Musk himself. Despite the clear symbolic tone of the original video, many interpreted Lee’s repost as a political statement.
Insiders close to the San Francisco Giants organization have confirmed that Lee is taking the matter seriously, with team officials now reviewing security protocols and social media policies. One team representative commented anonymously, saying, “Jung Hoo didn’t expect this reaction. He shared something he thought was meaningful, not controversial. It’s unfortunate that something so symbolic was twisted into a narrative it was never meant to be.”
The backlash has led to a growing conversation in the sports world about athletes’ rights to express themselves online without being targeted. While some fans have criticized Lee for stepping into what they see as a tech-political issue, many have rallied behind him, defending his right to support a message of independence and strength. The hashtag #IStandWithJungHooLee is now trending, with users from around the world offering messages of encouragement and condemning the toxic culture of online threats.
Elon Musk has yet to issue a direct statement regarding the video or the backlash against Lee, but in typical fashion, he posted a vague tweet shortly after the controversy erupted: “Some people get attention by destroying what others build.” This post was widely interpreted as a response to the tank video and to those who have shared it, including Lee.
As the dust continues to settle, Jung Hoo Lee has not removed the post, nor has he issued a public apology — a quiet but powerful indication that he stands by his decision. In an age where social media posts can spark global debate in minutes, Lee’s situation underscores the fine line athletes walk between personal expression and public backlash.