Broadcaster Hong Jin Kyung deleted a social media post that sparked political color controversy on the day of the presidential election and apologized.

Hong Jin Kyung posted a handwritten apology on her personal social media on the afternoon of the 3rd. This came after she had uploaded a photo wearing a 'red outfit' the day before, which led to political color controversy related to the 21st presidential election.

The controversy started from a photo Hong Jin Kyung posted on her personal social media on the 2nd. Visiting a local clothing brand store in Stockholm, Sweden, Hong Jin Kyung revealed photos of herself wearing items from the store. As a former model, her graceful appearance, naturally showcasing long boots and intensely colored knit shirts, drew attention.

The problem was that among her outfits was a 'red' knit. As political expressions from supporting groups have been particularly emphasized regarding the election on the 3rd, Hong Jin Kyung's post was interpreted as a declaration of support for candidate Kim Moon-soo from the People Power Party, who is associated with the color red.

This is understandable as in the entertainment industry, recent controversies include a photo posted by Karina, a member of the girl group aespa, wearing clothes with the number 2 printed on a red pattern, which led to the label of 'supporter number 2.' In fact, Karina quickly deleted the photo, and through her agency and fandom platform, she clarified that it had nothing to do with the election, but it was of no avail.

Moreover, Hong Jin Kyung had previously conducted interviews with prominent presidential candidates through her personal YouTube channel 'Study King Jin Genius.' There were ongoing suspicions that Hong Jin Kyung must be aware of the controversy surrounding Karina and the sensitive political climate during the election season, suggesting that her post was intentional.

However, Hong Jin Kyung stated in her handwritten apology, "When I woke up in the morning, I received so many calls. I often thought it was unfortunate to see celebrities behave in ways that could be misinterpreted during the voting period. Yet, at this sensitive time, to think that I would commit such a foolish mistake is sincerely absurd for me."

He explained, "The photos I posted on my feed were taken in a store in Stockholm two days ago. I shared the photos thinking the design was interesting, but at that time, I did not consider the color of the top I was wearing."

Additionally, he noted, "Having spent a long time abroad, far removed from life in Korea, I seem to have lost my sense of tension. Regardless of the reason, I am at fault. There are no words to express my regret, and it is clear that I made a mistake. During this sensitive time for everyone, I sincerely apologize for having confused your hearts once again."

Here is the full text of Hong Jin Kyung's apology.

Hello? This is Hong Jin Kyung.
I am currently on a business trip abroad, and due to the time difference, I have just checked the internet now.
I am sorry for the delay in my apology.

When I woke up in the morning, I found that I had indeed received many calls….
I often thought it was unfortunate to see celebrities behave in ways that could be misinterpreted during the voting period, but
to think that I would commit such a foolish mistake at this sensitive time…
I find it sincerely absurd.

The photos I posted on my feed were taken in a store in Stockholm two days ago.
I shared the photos thinking the design was interesting, but I did not think about the color of the top I was wearing at that time.

Having spent a long time abroad, far removed from life in Korea, I seem to have lost my sense of tension.
Regardless of the reason, I am at fault.
There are no words to express my regret, and it is clear that I made a mistake.

During this sensitive time for everyone, I sincerely apologize for having confused your hearts.
Best regards, Hong Jin Kyung, June 3rd.

[Photo] OSEN DB, sourced from social media.

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