YouTuber and broadcaster KwakTube personally apologized and offered an explanation over the sponsorship controversy involving a Birthcare Center, and attention is focused on whether he can turn public opinion around.
On the 10th, KwakTube posted a lengthy position statement on his personal channel saying, "I am heavy-hearted that the recent controversy related to using a Birthcare Center caused concern."
Previously, KwakTube had posted on social media a photo of him holding his son at the Birthcare Center with the word 'sponsored,' which led to speculation that he may have violated the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act and sparked controversy. He later deleted the wording, and his agency SM C&C explained that "it was not an overall sponsorship but only a room upgrade service that was provided," yet debate continued over the scale of the benefit.
KwakTube said that after his spouse's childbirth he received a room upgrade and some services as sponsorship from the Birthcare Center, and that although he disclosed the sponsorship on social media at the time, he later realized that his explanation of the detailed scope was insufficient and could cause misunderstanding, so he revised the post.
He added that, "Because my spouse is a public servant, after the controversy arose I sought legal counsel and confirmed that the sponsorship was a private contract between me and the Birthcare Center and was not related to my spouse's duties."
In particular, he expressed his intention to donate 30 million won to support single mothers. However, KwakTube bowed his head, saying, "Regardless of the reason, as a family member of a public official I should have been more cautious." He added, "If there are procedural matters that need to be addressed, I will faithfully explain them," and said, "This incident has led me to reflect on myself."
He also said that he paid the full difference received from the Birthcare Center as sponsorship. "From now on I will act after deeply considering not only legal standards but also social responsibility," and "I apologize once again to everyone who may have felt uncomfortable," and amid the public apology and follow-up measures, attention is focused on whether KwakTube's sincere explanation will be accepted by the public.
[photo] 'SNS'
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