Kim In-seok, trying to bring laughter, became embroiled in an unexpected incident amid misunderstandings that he had 'converted to a pastor'.
Kim In-seok became embroiled in an unexpected incident amid misunderstandings that he had 'converted to a pastor'. After a sketch video featuring religion was uploaded to YouTube, some in the public took it as a real situation, resulting in mixed reactions of 'it's funny' and criticisms of 'it's unpleasant', escalating the controversy.
The entire incident began with a video uploaded on the YouTube channel 'New Seong-ho bbakoo' on the 10th. The title was '[Special Documentary] Why New Jeans Are Going to Church!??'. In the video, Yoon Seong-ho appears dressed as a monk and says, 'A classmate has opened a church,' followed by Kim In-seok in a pastor's outfit who warmly greets him, saying, 'Come into the house of God.' The two continued a delightful sketch, maintaining the 'monk and pastor' concept they previously showcased on 'Comedy Big League'. Kim In-seok displayed his unique sense of humor by saying, 'I am frolicking in God's embrace now.'
However, the problem was the 'over-immersion'. After the video was released, rumors that 'Kim In-seok has become a real pastor' quickly spread online, causing growing confusion that even led to some articles being published. Eventually, on the 11th, Kim In-seok personally addressed the matter on social media. He stated, 'I am still actively working as a broadcaster' and 'If I really become a pastor, I will let you know first.' He then captured a headline that read, 'The kid who was frolicking... the handsome comedian has become a church pastor,' expressing his incredulity by asking, 'Is that method acting... Am I that character? Is that character me?'
The background of the controversy also involved the character Yoon Seong-ho, who is active with the unique concept of 'New Jeans'. The extreme settings of the monk and pastor intertwined, leading some viewers to perceive it as 'religious satire', transforming what was intended as a humorous sketch into a sensitive debate.
Despite the clarification, reactions to the video were mixed. Some internet users expressed discomfort, saying, 'I felt touched, thinking he was a real pastor, and then I felt betrayed,' and 'Since religious themes are sensitive, it should have been handled carefully.' Criticism arose, stating, 'It's unpleasant to ridicule a sacred religion.' On the other hand, responses in defense included, 'A joke is just a joke,' 'The comedian made me laugh after a long time,' and 'Their chemistry is still great.' In particular, there were reactions noting a sense of joy in the familiar merriment of Kim In-seok, who was previously beloved for his 'frolicking' character.
In relation to this, some in the broadcasting industry analyzed that this incident was 'evidence that both characters were that compelling.' It provided such a sense of immersion that public reactions sharply divided over the authenticity of the situation. Ultimately, this incident concluded as a self 'fishing drama' created by Kim In-seok's acting skills and sense of humor. While it was viewed as 'acting for laughter' by some, others saw it as 'boundary-less satire.' Kim In-seok once again showcased his presence, but at the same time, left a question about how to establish the boundaries between entertainment and reality.
[Photo] Kim In-seok's social media, OSEN DB
[OSEN]