YouTuber and broadcaster GwakTube posted an apology and explained the situation after becoming embroiled in controversy over violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act after receiving a sponsored upgrade at a Birthcare Center.
On the 10th, GwakTube posted a lengthy statement on his personal channel saying, "I am deeply troubled by the controversy that has arisen recently regarding my use of a Birthcare Center."
GwakTube explained, "After my spouse's childbirth, I received a room upgrade and some services sponsored by the facility. At the time I announced the sponsorship on social media, but I later recognized that the specific scope could cause misunderstandings and I revised the content."
He went on to emphasize, "Because my spouse is a public servant, I sought legal counsel after the controversy arose and confirmed that the sponsorship was a private contract between me and the facility and had no connection to my spouse's official duties."
GwakTube said, "However, regardless of the reason, I deeply feel that as a family member of a public official I should have acted more carefully. If there are procedural matters required in the future, I will sincerely explain them."
He added, "This experience made me reflect on myself and those around me. Reflecting on my lack of consideration, I intend to donate 30 million won to support single mothers, a cause I have long held in my heart," and stated, "I have also paid the facility the full difference for the sponsored upgrade."
Finally, GwakTube bowed his head and said, "From now on I will consider and practice not only legal standards but also social responsibility more deeply. I bow my head and apologize once again to everyone who felt discomfort."
Meanwhile, GwakTube recently posted a photo on social media of him holding his son at a Birthcare Center with the word 'sponsored' but removed the label when questions arose about possible violations of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act. As the controversy grew, his agency SM C&C explained, "It was not an overall sponsorship; only a room upgrade service was provided," but the controversy continued because the benefit was not insignificant.
Below is the full text of GwakTube's apology
Hello, I am Gwak Jun-bin.
I am deeply troubled by the controversy that has arisen recently regarding my use of a Birthcare Center.
After my spouse's childbirth, I received a room upgrade and some services sponsored by the facility. At the time I announced the sponsorship on social media, but I later recognized that the specific scope could cause misunderstandings and I revised the content.
Because my spouse is a public servant, I sought legal counsel after the controversy arose and confirmed that the sponsorship was a private contract between me and the facility and had no connection to my spouse's official duties. However, regardless of the reason, I deeply feel that as a family member of a public official I should have acted more carefully. If there are procedural matters required in the future, I will sincerely explain them.
This experience made me reflect on myself and those around me. Reflecting on my lack of consideration, I intend to donate 30 million won to support single mothers, a cause I have long held in my heart. I have also paid the facility the full difference for the sponsored upgrade.
From now on I will consider and practice not only legal standards but also social responsibility more deeply. I bow my head and apologize once again to everyone who felt discomfort.<
[Photo] OSEN DB, SNS
[OSEN]