Travel creator and broadcaster KwakTube (Kwak Jun-bin) received an upgrade sponsorship from a Birthcare Center and was swept up in allegations of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act. The reason was that his wife is a public official.
KwakTube recently posted on social media a photo of him holding his son at the Birthcare Center with the phrase "sponsored." Afterward, because KwakTube's wife is a public official, the possibility of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act was raised, and KwakTube immediately deleted the phrase "sponsored."
But the controversy grew, and eventually his agency SM C&C explained, "It was only a room upgrade service, not an overall sponsorship." However, because the value of the benefit was not insignificant, the controversy continued.
Amid the ongoing controversy, on the 10th KwakTube posted a lengthy statement on his personal channel saying, "I am heavyhearted over the concern caused by the recent controversy related to my use of a Birthcare Center."
KwakTube explained, "After my spouse's childbirth, we received a room upgrade and some services as sponsorship from the facility. At the time I announced the sponsorship on social media, but I later recognized that the details could cause misunderstanding about the scope and I revised the content."
He added, "Because my spouse is a public servant, after the controversy arose we sought legal counsel and confirmed that the sponsorship was a private agreement between me and the Birthcare Center and was not related to my spouse's duties."
KwakTube said, "Regardless of the reason, I painfully realize that as a family member of a public official I should have acted more cautiously. If there are procedural matters required going forward, I will sincerely explain them."
He said, "Through this incident I have reflected on myself and those around me. Reflecting on my lack of consideration, I intend to donate 30 million won to support single mothers, which I have long had in mind," and added, "I have also paid the full difference to the Birthcare Center for the sponsorship I received."
Finally, KwakTube apologized again, saying, "From now on I will be a person who considers and practices not only legal standards but also social responsibility more deeply. I bow my head and apologize once more to everyone who felt discomfort."
Legally, the Birthcare Center sponsorship was not problematic, but because his wife is a public official the sponsorship became a sensitive issue and led to controversy, and ultimately the matter was resolved with KwakTube paying the difference and making a donation.
[Photo] KwakTube SNS
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