A controversy has arisen as a variety show writer attempted to recruit the bereaved family of a victim who died in a sinkhole accident that occurred in March in the Myeongil-dong neighborhood of Gangdong District, Seoul. The production team apologized, saying, “It was an unwise decision.”
The younger sister of motorcycle driver Park Mo (34), who was buried and died in the Myeongil-dong sinkhole accident, revealed a message sent by the production team of KBS JOY's variety show "Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller" on her social media account on the 30th of last month.
The production team of "Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller" sent A a message saying, “We would like to cautiously ask if you would be open to discussing the contents you posted on your social media account as a bereaved family member regarding the sinkhole accident.”
In response, A wrote, “Is this funny? Are you mocking me? Is this event a source of entertainment?” and added, “Isn't this tarnishing the faces of the panelists? Is this acceptable by common sense?” She continued, “I’ve endured it and endured it, but this is excessive.”
Later, the production team sent A another message apologizing for not considering that the recruitment proposal they cautiously inquired about could be perceived as unpleasant.
However, regarding the "Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller" program, they explained, “It is a 'consultation program' that addresses the diverse concerns of various individuals beyond just providing laughter to viewers,” adding, “It was not intended for a simple entertainment program recruitment as you might think.” "Ask Us Anything Fortune Teller" also deals with current issues such as the "Haein Law" national petition and the "Seohyeon Station incident."
The production team added, “We will strengthen our internal processes related to recruitment,” and reiterated their apologies and condolences to the families of the victims.