Yui explains health concerns→Lee Ji-hye steps down as DJ→Aespa sexual harassment controversy→Lee Seo-han addresses illegal filming controversy… the entertainment industry on May 3rd, N years ago

Every year on the same day, the entertainment industry has its ups and downs. On May 3rd, N years ago, various events occurred in the entertainment industry, from actress Yui's explanation of health concerns to Lee Ji-hye's confession about her heart disease and her departure from radio DJ duties, as well as a sexual harassment incident involving Aespa.

Looking back, we reflect on the entertainment industry of that day.

◆ Yui, "Don't worry"… directly addresses health concerns

On May 3rd, 2019, Yui became embroiled in health concerns after posting a selfie on social media. Fans expressed concern over her visibly thin wrists and gaunt face in the photo.

In response, Yui clarified the next day, saying it was "a day full of thoughts" and that she was "healthy, traveling around, enjoying good food." She alleviated the controversy by posting a bright new selfie, explaining that the image had been distorted by a photo app filter.

◆ Lee Ji-hye, diagnosed with heart disease→steps down as DJ of 'Discovery of the Afternoon'

On May 3rd, 2023, Lee Ji-hye officially announced her departure from MBC FM4U's 'Discovery of the Afternoon with Lee Ji-hye.' The previous day, the SBS program 'Same Myth 2' revealed her diagnosis of heart function decline and deep vein thrombosis, shocking viewers.

She said, "It's not to the point of death, but I have developed a chronic condition," adding, "I’ve decided to be a selfish mom for my child," which brought a sense of bittersweetness. Lee Ji-hye had spent about four years as a DJ on the program, fostering a deep connection with listeners.

◆ Aespa, victim of sexual harassment during a high school event… school issues an apology

On the same day, it was reported that Aespa suffered serious sexual harassment during an event at a boys' high school in Seoul while interacting with fans. The chaos unfolded as the order on stage collapsed, and sexually harassing comments written by students spread on social media.

The school received criticism for appearing to evade responsibility in its initial explanation, but later issued an official apology, stating, "We deeply apologize for damaging your honor." It's reported that related students faced strict disciplinary measures.

◆ Lee Seo-han, apologizes for SNS controversy over suspected illegal filming

Actor Lee Seo-han faced controversy and issued multiple apologies after posting a suspected illegal filming video on social media.

On May 1st, 2024, Lee Seo-han posted a video showing two individuals seemingly engaging in sexual activity on his social media. The controversy intensified as the video was perceived to imply illegal filming, with the location thought to be singer Bang Yedam's studio.

In response, Lee Seo-han stated the following night, "The video uploaded yesterday was a prank among friends. I apologize to Yedam and her fans as the video was taken in her studio," and added, "I hope there will be no more speculation and misunderstandings about this video."

However, the phrase "a prank among friends" led to further misunderstandings. Lee Seo-han ultimately posted again on the morning of the 3rd through his personal Instagram account, saying, "It seems my explanation, which I held back due to fear and remorse, actually caused the controversy, so I am gathering the courage to write again."

Lee Seo-han continued, "Friends who are usually close to me often listened to music and watched movies while drinking at Yedam’s studio. The day before, five of us gathered for a drinking session, and after midnight, one drunken friend and Yedam went home," clarifying that while filming the video, Bang Yedam was not present. He added, "While my other friends and I were having another drink, we posted a staged video to a private account. It’s not illegal filming or anything like that."

Lee Seo-han expressed, "As someone who dreams of being an actor, I sincerely apologize for causing controversy due to my immaturity. I truly apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable because of the video and to my fans who care about me, and I will act more cautiously in the future. Once again, I apologize."

On May 3rd, N years ago, the entertainment industry was filled with fans' worries, disappointments, support, and anger. As time passes now, it's also important to reflect on that day to prevent such mistakes or incidents from happening again.

[Photo] Lee Seo-han, OSEN DB

[OSEN]