Broadcaster Jang Yeong-ran issued a direct apology over allegations of "linked programming," and her husband Han Chang's public show of support has sparked another controversy.
On the 24th, Jang Yeong-ran posted a lengthy statement on her social media regarding the recent home shopping "linked programming" allegations. She drew the line, saying, "As far as I have confirmed, we have complied with the relevant regulations and guidelines, and there was no fact of being involved in the production process or in the casting of grants by the home shopping or broadcasting side."
However, she bowed her head, saying, "That process may have felt different to some consumers, and I think there were parts where judgment was lacking as a result," and "I take seriously the disappointment caused by introducing the product through inappropriate grants."
This controversy began on the 23rd, a day earlier, with an expose by the YouTube channel "Samangyeou TV." The channel raised the "linked programming" allegation based on circumstances showing that immediately after a terrestrial health information program introduced a case in which someone successfully lost weight by consuming a specific ingredient, Jang Yeong-ran sold a product containing the same ingredient on a home shopping broadcast. Critics say the overlap of broadcast content and product sales deceived consumers.
Amid this situation, comments from her husband Han Chang drew attention. Han Chang wrote on Jang Yeong-ran's apology post, "As a husband watching you suffer and lose sleep every night, my heart aches and I am upset," and "Although it could be understandable to say it's industry practice and feel wronged, seeing you not blame anyone and try to take responsibility makes me think a lot."
He added, publicly supporting his wife, "Because you have always treated people sincerely, I believe you will overcome this crisis well. Don't be discouraged. I will protect you more firmly by your side."
Once the comment became known, netizen reactions were mixed. Some gave positive responses such as "It's reassuring to have a husband who stays by your side when times are hard," "You can feel the sincerity," and "a model of spousal support." On the other hand, cold views continued, saying things like "inappropriate wording to attach to an apology," "the nuance of feeling wronged rather fuels the controversy," and "a tone-deaf comment."
[Photo] SNS / OSEN DB
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