Giants Star Jung Hoo Lee Detained At LAX Over Paperwork

San Francisco Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee found himself at the center of an unexpected off-field drama this Wednesday evening after being detained at Los Angeles International Airport. Lee, 27, was arriving from his native South Korea ahead of the Giants' much-anticipated FanFest in San Ramon, scheduled for Saturday. The incident, which could have escalated into a major headache for the player and the organization, was swiftly resolved thanks to the combined efforts of his agent, the Giants’ front office, and high-profile political intervention.

According to multiple sources, including a statement from the Giants and confirmation from Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s office, Lee’s detainment by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stemmed from a paperwork issue. The outfielder had reportedly left crucial travel documents behind in South Korea, which led to a brief hold at LAX. While such situations can sometimes spiral, this was not one of those times. The Giants were quick to clarify the nature of the problem, emphasizing that it was a simple administrative hiccup rather than anything more serious or politically motivated.

"Earlier today, Jung Hoo Lee experienced a brief travel issue at LAX due to a paperwork issue," the Giants said in an official statement. "The matter was quickly clarified with the appropriate authorities, and he has since been cleared to continue his travel. We appreciate the professionalism of all parties involved." The club’s measured response echoed the sentiment shared by Lee’s agent, Scott Boras, who told the San Francisco Chronicle, "It was not anything political or anything like that. I think he just forgot one of the documents."

The episode lasted about an hour and, according to Pelosi’s office, required a coordinated effort between the Giants organization, congressional partners, and federal liaisons to secure Lee’s release. Pelosi’s spokesperson noted, "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." The incident was resolved without further complication, and Lee was able to continue his journey north to the Bay Area.

This minor travel mishap comes as Lee prepares to enter his third season with the Giants, following a high-profile move from the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) to Major League Baseball. In December 2023, Lee inked a six-year, $113 million contract with San Francisco—the largest ever for a Korean-born position player. His arrival was met with considerable fanfare, and he’s quickly become a fan favorite thanks to his dynamic play in center field and approachable personality.

Lee’s MLB journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He missed most of his rookie season in 2024 after dislocating his left shoulder during a game, an injury that required season-ending surgery. However, he rebounded in 2025, appearing in 150 games (starting 144 in center), and posted a .266 batting average with eight home runs, 55 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases. In total, through 187 big league games, Lee is hitting .265 with 10 homers, 63 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases. Not bad for a player adjusting to a new league, new culture, and—apparently—new paperwork requirements!

His baseball pedigree is no secret. Before making the leap to MLB, Lee spent seven stellar seasons with the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO, where he won Rookie of the Year, the 2022 MVP, five Golden Gloves, and made six All-Star appearances. His father, Jong Beom Lee, was a legendary KBO star known as the "Son of the Wind," and those who have followed Korean baseball consider Jung Hoo’s career trajectory to be just as promising.

Lee’s impact extends beyond the field. He’s been instrumental in building bridges between the Giants and the Korean baseball community. Earlier this January, a high-profile Giants delegation—including president of baseball operations Buster Posey, CEO Larry Baer, and manager Tony Vitello—traveled to South Korea to promote the team and celebrate Lee’s contributions. The group hosted baseball clinics at local high schools and enjoyed Korean barbecue courtesy of Lee, further cementing his role as a cultural ambassador for the franchise.

This winter, Lee also hosted manager Tony Vitello and shortstop Willy Adames in South Korea for a cultural exchange with the Giants’ front office. Vitello later remarked that a highlight of the trip was meeting Lee’s parents, giving the organization a deeper appreciation for the roots and values that have shaped their star outfielder.

With the paperwork snafu behind him, Lee is set to appear at the Giants’ FanFest in San Ramon this Saturday, much to the delight of Bay Area fans eager for a glimpse of their international star. But that’s just the beginning of a busy spring. The Giants’ pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona, on February 10, with the full squad arriving February 15. Lee, like several of his teammates, is already looking ahead to the World Baseball Classic in March, where he will represent South Korea. According to his own confirmation to the Chosun Daily, he’s committed to donning his country’s colors once again. The tournament kicks off with an exhibition game against Czechia on March 5 in Tokyo.

The Giants, coming off a disappointing 81-81 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year and make a managerial change from Bob Melvin to Tony Vitello, are hoping Lee’s continued growth and international experience will help turn the tide. The franchise will open the 2026 MLB season at home against the New York Yankees on March 25, a matchup that’s already generating plenty of buzz.

As for Lee, the brief travel hiccup seems unlikely to slow his momentum. If anything, it’s just another story to add to a growing list of experiences as he continues to adapt to life in the United States and Major League Baseball. The Giants, for their part, are grateful for the swift resolution and the professionalism of all parties involved, from federal authorities to congressional offices.

With his paperwork now in order and his focus back on baseball, Jung Hoo Lee is ready for the spotlight—on and off the field. Giants fans, mark your calendars: FanFest is still on, and so is the excitement for what promises to be a pivotal season in San Francisco.