KBS announcer Kim Jin-woong is at the center of controversy after making a 'sub' remark regarding his senior, Do Kyung-wan. KBS, which was attempting to cultivate star announcers like MBC, is facing backlash with a petition for Kim Jin-woong's dismissal.
On the 24th, during the KBS2 program 'The Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears', Kim Jin-woong made a controversial statement while talking with his senior, Announcer Um Ji-in. When Um praised, "Among male juniors, the one who is the best at getting married is Do Kyung-wan. While his wife, Jang Yoon-jung, tours the country, he supports her well and has been appearing in more broadcasts after their marriage, matching their couple's chemistry," Kim Jin-woong replied, "I can't live like senior Do Kyung-wan. It may be rude to acknowledge this, but I can't live as someone's sub."
In other words, he described Do Kyung-wan's role in supporting his wife, Jang Yoon-jung, as 'someone's sub'. When Um Ji-in asked, "Why is Do Kyung-wan a sub?" Kim Jin-woong maintained, "I am sorry to the senior and it may be rude, but that kind of life is not easy for me."
This remark immediately led to a significant uproar. Jang Yoon-jung expressed her displeasure through her personal SNS, saying, "I have no close ties, yet this is absurd," and added, "Words or actions that cannot make the other party laugh cannot be packaged as jokes or pranks. There are no subs among family."
As the controversy grew, Kim Jin-woong ultimately posted an apology on his SNS stating, "I apologize for causing concern to seniors Do Kyung-wan and Jang Yoon-jung with my careless remark. I sincerely apologize to viewers and fans who may have felt uncomfortable."
In contrast, MBC created a star through 'Home Alone' by highlighting the relatable daily life and human charm of then-anchorman Kim Dae-ho. After Kim Dae-ho declared his intention to freelance and left the company, they portrayed rookie announcer Ko Gang-yong positively, increasing his popularity.
The two have built a friendly image through entertainment programs and naturally communicated with viewers. Unlike the MBC announcers who gained such goodwill, Kim Jin-woong has lost trust due to his greed and careless remarks.
In the KBS2 program 'The Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears' aired in July, Kim Jin-woong faced criticism for saying that to become a star, he had to be next to a star, implying he 'abandoned' Jun Hyun-moo. Ultimately, his desire to become a star has, contrary to his intentions, made the public view him coldly.
[Photo] Capture, SNS
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