Shim Soo-chang opens up about divorce, seeking new love

Former professional baseball player turned entertainer Shim Soo-chang revealed his divorce on a variety show, expressing a sincere desire to find a new partner. His candid approach in calmly discussing his past marriage drew empathy from both the cast and viewers.

In the episode of the TV CHOSUN variety program 'Lovers of Joseon' aired on the 20th, members of the project group '6 Can Do It' participated in a 2 Days & 1 Night group meeting to find new connections.

During his self-introduction, Shim introduced himself by saying, "I started baseball at age 11, played as a professional baseball player for 16 years, and am currently working as a baseball commentator and broadcaster."

After pausing to choose his words, he cautiously opened up, saying, "I feel like I should mention this in advance."

Shim directly confessed to his divorce, stating, "I've been through it once," causing the atmosphere on set to turn solemn for a moment due to the unexpected revelation.

However, he quickly shared his reason for appearing, expressing his sincere heart: "I came here because I want to make a new start."

He added a modest wish, saying, "I have never played catch with a partner before. I want to meet someone who can play catch with me."

His confession, featuring a metaphor fitting for a baseball player, captured the interest of the cast by conveying his anticipation and excitement for a new relationship.

His close friend, comedian Yang Sang-guk, encouraged him by saying, "That is absolutely not a flaw," before lightening the tension with a joke: "I even emceed your wedding."

At this unexpected "fact bomb," the cast burst into laughter, and the heavy atmosphere shifted to a much softer tone.

Shim has previously mentioned his relationship with his ex-wife on other broadcasts.

At that time, he explained that they maintain a relationship where they support each other's new lives after the divorce, stating, "My ex-wife cheered me on, saying she hopes things go well for me."

His attitude of not hiding his past and accepting it as it is has been praised by viewers as a mature approach.

However, he faced a result different from his expectations during the first impression selection.

Shim was not chosen by the female participants in the first round and had to eat alone, unable to hide his disappointment despite his characteristic bright smile.

Nevertheless, he accepted the result calmly and showed sincerity by participating in the program with dedication.

Recently, dating reality programs have been shifting toward highlighting the actual lives and narratives of the participants rather than relying on flashy setups. Analysts suggest a growing trend where marriage and divorce experiences are no longer seen as something to be hidden, but are respected as part of life's journey and included in sincere stories of building new relationships.

Shim also gained empathy from viewers by showing authenticity, not hiding his past and honestly expressing his will for a new start. Although he did not achieve the desired result in the first meeting, attention is focused on what changes he will bring during the upcoming process of finding a connection.