The production team of MBC's variety show Hangout With Yoo apologized over the process of actor Lee Yi-kyung's departure and the so-called "noodle slurping (audibly slurping noodles)" controversy.
On the 22nd, the production team said on its official social media (SNS), "We extend our sincere apologies to Lee Yi-kyung, who was hurt, and to everyone we caused concern."
Regarding the departure process, the production team said, "As reports stemming from the spread of private-life rumors were developing through the media, we judged it would be difficult to continue together given the nature of a variety show that must deliver laughs every week," adding, "The production team first recommended departure to the agency." They also added that stating on the 4th that the departure was voluntary was the minimum courtesy for Lee Yi-kyung.
They also acknowledged that the "noodle slurping" scene, which drew discomfort among viewers, was a production choice by the staff.
The production team said, "In trying to be entertaining, we asked Lee Yi-kyung to slurp noodles, but we overreached," adding, "We failed to correctly grasp viewers' sentiments, causing hurt to Lee Yi-kyung and discomfort to viewers."
The apology came a day after Lee Yi-kyung announced on SNS that he had filed a complaint against those spreading private-life rumors and posted a message expressing disappointment at the Hangout With Yoo production team for recommending his departure.