Comedian Yang Sang-guk has been at the center of continuing controversy, and this time debate over his "attitude" has reignited. It seems public sentiment has turned against him, and his choice of words keeps being picked apart.
Recently lauded as experiencing a "second heyday" while appearing across various variety shows, Yang Sang-guk came under scrutiny for remarks about dating after appearing on the YouTube channel "Pinggego." At the time he said, "I won't do it unless I'm going to do it for life," expressing a firm view on dating, and even after Yu Jae-seok's advice he replied, "That's not it," and "If you say that one more time I'll scold you," which chilled the atmosphere. On top of that, his use of the honorific 'Mr. Yu Jae-seok' prompted some viewers to call it rude.
Amid the controversy, Yang Sang-guk apologized on social media, saying, "I'm sorry for causing discomfort," but similar scenes captured later on broadcasts have kept the debate going.
On the April 4 episode of TV CHOSUN's "Chosun's lovemaker," Yang Sang-guk, who visited a matchmaking agency dreaming of marriage, was shown. But during the consultation his blunt speaking again came under scrutiny.
When the physiognomy consultant said, "He's handsome but stubborn," Yang Sang-guk shot back, "Men should be stubborn," and when advised, "You should loosen your stubbornness a bit," he replied, "Aren't elders stubborn too?" and did not back down. Some viewers reacted to that scene with, "It's uncomfortable to see him talk back to an elder," and, "He seems to lack manners."
On the other hand, other viewers defended him, saying, "It's just a variety setting," and, "An exaggerated reaction to keep the character alive."
In the later released matching results, Yang Sang-guk was rated "grade 6," and while saying, "Personality is important," he also said he preferred "Seoul women with Cheongdam-dong style," producing laughter for appearing inconsistent. However, he also said he was "disappointed in himself" about the results while seeming not to accept the grade itself, which invited another interpretation.
Following the dating remarks came the matchmaking agency consultation scene. Yang Sang-guk's "direct speaking style" and "strong stubbornness" can certainly be a character, but at the same time they are a double-edged sword that can make viewers uncomfortable.
Public opinion is currently split between reactions of "I like his honesty" and "He crossed the line." Having joined the trend and become part of the "Y-line," attention is focused on how Yang Sang-guk will handle this controversy and what his next move will be.
[Photo] "Chosun's lovemaker"
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