Broadcasters Park Na-rae and Cho Sae-ho, who had won the public's love with friendly images, have simultaneously faced crises as they became embroiled in various allegations and rumors. The "drinking buddy" and "well-connected" images that had served as likable traits for the two now appear to be igniting controversy.
#. likable image of Park Na-rae, exposed by former manager, "drinking buddy image" becomes poison
Park Na-rae built a likable star image by showing caring and humane sides on MBC's I Live Alone. Her habit of inviting acquaintances and creating episodes at "Narae Bar" became one pillar of variety shows, and she eventually reached her heyday by winning the entertainment award.
But this genial "drinking buddy image" is working against her in the current allegations. On the 4th, Dispatch reported that former managers filed a provisional seizure of real estate with the Seoul Western District Court and warned of a lawsuit seeking damages in the 100 million won range.
Former managers alleged workplace harassment, special injury, errands for proxy prescriptions, unpaid hosting fees, and poured out specific disclosures including forced drinking, household errands, verbal abuse, and thrown drink cups. Park Na-rae's side has maintained only the position "verifying facts" for two days.
The later the official position comes, the more the "cheerful drinking buddy" image attached to Park Na-rae deepens the controversy. Some viewers, still reserving judgment, have said, "Image damage will be hard to avoid."
#. backlash against the "well-connected" image… Cho Sae-ho embarrassed by rumors of ties to organized crime
If Park Na-rae's image turned poisonous, Cho Sae-ho faced backlash for his "well-connected" image. Known for broad connections—so much so that 900 guests crowded his wedding last year—he has been regarded as a representative "insider" of the entertainment industry.
But recently, a suspicion involving an acquaintance surfaced on social media that "Cho Sae-ho promoted a franchise operated by a member of an organized criminal group and received expensive gifts," intensifying the controversy. The released photos included an image of Cho Sae-ho with Mr. Choi, who was pointed out as a key figure in organized crime, and the allegations spread rapidly.
Cho Sae-ho's side immediately rebutted. The agency drew a firm line, saying, "The informant's claims are personal speculation and groundless," and "allegations of accepting money or involvement are completely false."
But perhaps because the "well-connected" image was so strong, online opinion remains cold despite the quick clarification. Some viewers questioned whether his appearances on You Quiz on the Block and 2 Days & 1 Night should continue, saying, "His network management enlarged the problem."
#. simultaneous crisis for two likable stars… importance of image management reemerges
Park Na-rae and Cho Sae-ho have been representative "likable characters" loved by the public for their friendliness, humor and human touch. But as shown in this controversy, those images can backfire and magnify the dispute.
Park Na-rae's "drinking, boisterous" character and Cho Sae-ho's "well-connected" image have each become factors that strengthen negative frames amid different allegations. Both agencies have announced fact-checking and tough responses, but image damage has already progressed considerably. How Park Na-rae and Cho Sae-ho will explain and respond going forward, and how viewers will receive that, will likely be the pivotal turning point in their future actions.
[photo] OSEN DB, provided by Park Na-rae
[OSEN]