Doh Kyung-wan addresses the controversy over Kim Jin-woong's 'sub remark,' saying, 'I was upset, but I hope no one gets hurt.'
As the controversy over KBS announcer Kim Jin-woong's 'sub remark' continues to make headlines, the subject of the issue, announcer Doh Kyung-wan, has personally shared his stance.
Doh Kyung-wan said on the 26th through his SNS, 'The way we, as a couple, appear may seem tilted to some. However, we respect and care for each other and are living our lives relying firmly on one another.' He added, 'I received an apology text from my junior, Kim Jin-woong. I feel upset that this incident may have hurt our family and those who love our family, but I hope that no one else gets hurt because of this.' Finally, Doh Kyung-wan concluded, 'From now on, I will greet you with a bright appearance again.'
Earlier, announcer Kim Jin-woong sparked controversy by stating during the KBS 2TV entertainment program 'Boss's Ears Are Donkeys' that, while talking with a representative from a marriage information agency, 'I can't live like senior Doh Kyung-wan. I can't live as someone's sub.'
This remark immediately led to criticism suggesting that it categorized Doh Kyung-wan as 'Jang Yoon-jung's sub,' and his wife, Jang Yoon-jung, also expressed her displeasure through SNS. She firmly stated, 'There is no sub among family, nor can words or actions that can't make the other party laugh be wrapped up as jokes or play.'
Subsequently, on the 25th, announcer Kim Jin-woong posted a lengthy apology on SNS, expressing regret for causing concern to the Doh Kyung-wan and Jang Yoon-jung couple. He acknowledged, 'Senior Doh Kyung-wan has been a person who warmly looked after me since my days working in the region when I was hungry. Nonetheless, I caused a great inconvenience,' admitting his thoughtless remarks. Jang Yoon-jung also accepted the apology, saying, 'I appreciate that many people resonate with my post. I hope for good fortune in the future.'
However, the controversy did not easily die down. In particular, while Doh Kyung-wan had humorously referred to himself as 'the husband of the trot queen' on a past program, the use of the word 'sub' by a junior he wasn't close to was seen as crossing the line. Some internet users continued to criticize Kim Jin-woong, stating, 'These are things that could never be said if you know Doh Kyung-wan's true character.'
As Doh Kyung-wan's SNS post was made public, internet users sent messages of support, saying, 'You must have been upset, but you truly are a magnanimous person,' 'I can feel the sincerity. The concern for family is admirable,' and 'I look forward to seeing you actively participating with a bright attitude in the future,' reaffirming the importance of understanding and consideration instead of crossing the line with remarks.
This incident serves as a reminder of the impact a single word from a broadcaster can have and highlights the need for careful speech and actions as a public figure.
[Photo] 'OSEN DB, SNS
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