14 Facts About Chun Hee-chul

Chun Hee-chul began playing basketball in elementary school "by accident" after being encouraged by his father, a sports enthusiast.

Chun Hee-chul attended Kyungbock High School in Seoul and was recruited by Korea University during his last year of high school.

Chun Hee-chul was middle and high school classmates with future national teammate and best friend Woo Ji-won.

At Korea University, Chun Hee-chul was a member of the dominant "Tiger Corps" which included Hyun Joo-yup, future KBL Rookie of the Year Shin Ki-sung and future KBL regular season MVP Kim Byung-chul.

Chun Hee-chul began his career in 1996 and is among the last generation of players who began their careers during the semi-professional era; the professional league was founded a year later.

Chun Hee-chul's assignment turned out to be a blessing in disguise as he was discharged earlier than his counterparts who joined the Sangmu team.

In 2002, Chun Hee-chul signed with Jeonju KCC Egis but was released at the end of the season.

Chun Hee-chul was intentionally struck in the face by Park Sung-hoon but the referee failed to call the foul and Park scored a lay-up immediately afterwards.

The referee still did not blow the whistle even though Chun Hee-chul's face was visibly bloodied.

Chun Hee-chul's versatility meant that he was registered as a center or forward in different competitions.

Chun Hee-chul was part of the squad at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and a key member of the 1997 ABC Championship-winning team, being named tournament MVP.

Chun Hee-chul was recalled to the squad for the 2002 Asian Games, where he played as a forward due to Seo Jang-hoon and rookie Kim Joo-sung being preferred as the main centers.

Chun Hee-chul remained with Seoul SK Knights after retiring as a player.

Chun Hee-chul transitioned into coaching and worked under long-time teammate Moon Kyung-eun on the coaching staff.