The Cross's Kim Hyuk-geon recently shared his thoughts after watching the controversy surrounding a disabled YouTuber. He did not directly mention any specific person, but given that debates surrounding Park Wi have continued recently, his remarks have attracted attention.
On the 24th, Kim Hyuk-geon posted a lengthy message on his channel.
First, he candidly explained his approach to disability. Kim Hyuk-geon said that while pursuing music activities, he wants people to focus on the music and performance itself rather than his physical disability, and that when producing YouTube videos he tries to keep his wheelchair from necessarily appearing on camera. He added, "I don't think it's necessary to gain subscribers by eliciting pity or special attention because of a disability," and said he feels happy playing the music he likes and sharing it with people.
He then directly addressed the recent controversy involving a disabled YouTuber. He said he respects that it is meaningful for people not to hide their disabilities and to tell their life stories to the world, while also expressing the view that not all people with disabilities can reveal their disabilities in the same way.
In particular, what Kim Hyuk-geon worried about was the controversy spreading into a negative view of all people with disabilities. He expressed regret, saying he saw online comments like "I won't help disabled people anymore" and "There is no need to help them." He went on to say that he himself lives with many forms of social assistance, such as disabled taxis, subway convenience facilities and activity support services, and stressed, "Without that much help, people with the most severe disabilities would find it difficult to live day to day."
Kim Hyuk-geon asked that "I hope this controversy does not demean all people with disabilities or worsen social perceptions" and urged that people try to understand each other a little more and live together. He added that he would live with gratitude toward those in society and around him who provide help, and concluded, "I hope this incident does not leave too much hurt and despair between each other."
Kim Hyuk-geon did not name any specific YouTuber or directly mention the incident. However, given that his remarks came amid heated debate over Park Wi's KTX fall and the release of CCTV footage, they are interpreted as a warning against the atmosphere turning into criticism directed at all people with disabilities after this controversy.
Separately, Kim Hyuk-geon suffered severe cervical spine injuries in a 2012 traffic accident and was diagnosed with total paralysis. After rehabilitation, he returned to the stage and continues his career as a singer.
[photo] "Exclusive World"
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