Shohei Ohtani target of reported bomb threat in South Korea

Shohei Ohtani target of bomb threat that turns out to be not credible

Staff Writer

March 19, 2024 Updated 7:57 PM PT

SEOUL — Authorities in Seoul confirmed that a bomb threat claiming to target the Gocheok Sky Dome for the Dodgers’ season opener Wednesday against the San Diego Padres was not credible, according to a person with knowledge of the situation not authorized to speak publicly.

Police identified the perpetrator as an individual with a history of false claims, the person said.

The Dodgers’ game, which marks Shohei Ohtani’s regular-season debut with the club, will proceed as planned, according to a Major League Baseball spokesperson.

According to local media reports in Seoul — the capital city of South Korea — police received an email Wednesday morning from a person threatening to bomb Gocheok Sky Dome to harm Ohtani and others during the Dodgers and Padres international opening day game Wednesday night.

However, according to the Yonhap News Agency, no dangerous or suspicious situation was found.

“The safety and security of our fans and everyone in the ballparks where we play are always our first priority,” the league said in a statement. “MLB Security works closely with local officials to ensure a safe environment for all those who attend our games. MLB, along with the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency and other local officials, will continue to monitor the situation closely and take any appropriate steps throughout the event.”

The Dodgers and Padres are set to play a two-game series on Wednesday and Thursday at Gocheok Sky Dome, in what will be the first regular-season MLB games to take place in South Korea.

Shohei Ohtani target of bomb threat that turns out to be not credible

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