Ha Won-mi, wife of former major leaguer Choo Shin-soo, shared her whirlwind experiences on MBC's popular talk show, 'Radio Star', aired on March 12, 2025. The episode, which celebrated the show's 'Unlimited Challenge' special, featured Ha along with fellow guests Park Kyung-rim and Sunye, showcasing their entertaining banter.
On the show, Ha revealed the incredible details of their sprawling mansion located in the United States, measuring at 5500 pyeong (approximately 1.83 acres). This expansive property includes impressive features such as a pilates center, expansive wine cellar, large movie theater, and outdoor swimming pool.
Initially, the couple had intended to construct a modest 100 pyeong home, focusing on creating proximity for their children. "We didn't initially plan to build such a large house; we simply wanted something smaller to be close to our children," Ha explained, noting how Choo's growing list of demands shifted the project dramatically. "We started small, but my husband suggested having space for baseball practice, and as more needs cropped up, the size of the house grew."
Adding to the intrigue of their home, Ha stated, "After the construction was completed, we received offers, including one from the chairman of an oil company willing to pay 2 billion won extra to purchase the house."
Beyond discussing their lavish residence, Ha candidly opened up about the challenges she endured during Choo's minor league days. "There weren't many Koreans around, and I felt incredibly lonely. The internet was spotty at times, meaning I spent hours watching unintelligible TV and cleaning, just trying to fill the hours," she shared. The weight of loneliness became excruciated during this time, especially since Choo was dealing with elbow injuries, making their life challenges multiply. "I didn't want to burden him more, so I pretended everything was fine, leading to my own health issues due to excessive stress," she admitted.
Ha revealed the severity of her situation when doctors told her she faced potential vision loss due to glaucoma. Struck by worry, she recounted Choo's touching response: "He said, 'You're the reason I play baseball. If your eyes can't see, there's no point for me to continue. I'll quit baseball for you.'" His would-be sacrifice only highlighted the depth of their bond and commitment to one another.
The conversation didn't just stay serious. Ha also shared lighter moments from their life such as the time she received romantic attention from fans both during and after Choo's games. One incident included getting attention from fans at United States stadiums, she humorously reminisced, receiving notes and phone numbers without believing how dangerous such interactions could be. Looking back, she remarked, "There were times it felt like real danger, especially with the overzealous fans around baseball games. Choo even once promised to buy me a shining ring after some fans really ‘hit on me’ at the game."
Reflecting on her relationship, she recalled another amusing encounter where she was approached at the stadium and asked if she had a boyfriend. Instead of shying away from the compliment, she confidently replied, "I don't have one, do I?"This prompted laughter among the audience and caught Choo's mock jealousy, who interjected, "Why didn’t you just tell them I’m Choo Shin-soo?"
There was much laughter brought forth from her stories, showcasing her versatile talent and comedic timing, which not only made her husband proud but entertained the entire audience. The episode of 'Radio Star,' known for its unpredictable humor and engaging conversations, broadcast at 10:30 PM KST keeps the audience thirsting for more. Through her stories, Ha Won-mi showcased not just the glamour of their lifestyle but the rooted partnership they forged through trials and laughter, demonstrating they have built their life together on support and love as they gracefully navigated through ups and downs.
The show continues to air weekly on MBC at 10:30 PM, leaving fans entertained and engaged with the vivid realities starred by Ha and her charming stories about home, health, and the heart.