Negative public sentiment toward broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae shows no sign of abating. Even as he prepares to return after four years, various speculations continue, and this time an 'enrollment at a foreign school' rumor concerning his children appears to have surfaced.
Lee Hwi-jae's appearance in a preview video for KBS 2TV's entertainment program Immortal Songs on the 21st sparked heated debate as soon as it was released. In the video he showed tears saying, "It's been a while since I greeted you," but some netizens reacted, "Is there really a need for him to return?" and continued to view him coldly.
Lee Hwi-jae's broadcast appearances are about four years since 2022. In the meantime, he suspended activities amid several controversies related to his family and spent time in Canada. A dislikeable image solidified as private life issues continued, including disputes over noise between floors and allegations of 'dining-and-dashing' at an amusement park.
Amid this atmosphere, another speculation has recently been raised online regarding the timing of his return. There is suspicion that he returned to meet the enrollment requirements for his twin sons to enter a foreign school. With his wife Moon Jeong-won and their two sons still staying in Canada, the length of their overseas stay exceeding certain criteria has been cited as the basis.
But Lee Hwi-jae's side has not issued any particular response to the claim. Former managers have also declined to comment, saying, "We do not know about the children's studies." It is reported that Lee Hwi-jae is preparing his return in Korea without a separate agency.
The problem is that these unverified speculations are targeting his children as well. Critics note that it is excessive that criticism, which began from a dislikeable image, is gradually expanding to include the family, especially the children's academic matters.
With negative views toward Lee Hwi-jae still strong, there are voices of concern that such speculation is excessive.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]