Baseball players suspended by league, deny sexual assault allegations

Two baseball players for the Seoul-based Nexen Heroes who are under investigation for alleged sexual assault told police that there was no use of force or violence against a woman at an Incheon hotel, 40 kilometers west of Seoul, according to media reports Thursday.

The two teammates, pitcher Cho Sang-woo, 23, and catcher Park Dong-won, 28, have been placed on suspension without pay by the Korea Baseball Organization, which cited KBO rules that state it may suspend players who are alleged to have engaged in illegal acts or caused injury to dignity, and who may be unable to play during an investigation into the alleged acts.

Police began investigation after the alleged victim’s friend reported to police around 5:20 a.m. Wednesday that her friend was sexually assaulted by the two players. The two Nexen Heroes baseball players were visiting Incheon for a three-game road series against the SK Wyverns, which began Tuesday.

The baseball organization said it would decide whether to reinstate Cho and Park or extend their suspension, depending on the results of the police investigation.

With the suspension, Cho and Park are not allowed to take part in any baseball-related activities, including practices.

By Bak Se-hwan (sh@heraldcorp.com)