In the 21st presidential election, President Lee Jae-myung was elected, and actress Kim Hye-eun apologized for criticizing writer Yoo Si-min. As soon as the regime change took place, her public apology has raised attention as to whether it is a change in attitude or merely a coincidence.
On the 4th, Kim Hye-eun posted on social media, "I sincerely apologize to all those who felt discomfort or were saddened by the post I wrote on May 31. I acknowledge that the responsibility for those feelings rests entirely with me, and I am deeply reflecting on this."
Kim Hye-eun added, "As someone who has spoken for a long time, I have learned once again the weight of words through this incident. I will not forget that realization and strive to be an actress who holds herself to a higher standard. As a citizen who loves Korea, I support a Korea that is happier than anyone else, a developed Korea, and a Korea that stands tall in the world." The apology has since been deleted.
Earlier, on the 28th of last month, Kim Hye-eun criticized writer Yoo Si-min, who appeared on the YouTube channel "Kim Eo-jun's Das Bwayida," for saying, "The position of being the spouse of a presidential candidate from a major political party is a place that Seol Nan-young can rarely reach in her life," and added, "Having lived a rough life, she became the wife of a member of the National Assembly. She must have come to look up to her husband even more."
Kim Hye-eun remarked on Yoo Si-min's comments, "I don't think I've ever felt ashamed of being a Seoul National University graduate like I do today. I want to convey my apology on behalf of all of us. A person's education and intellect are worthless bragging in front of those who speak of life's proof through the hardships of life. If someone judges and belittles another's life with a careless tongue, they must have the most shameful tongue."
Kim Hye-eun graduated from the vocal music department of Seoul National University, while writer Yoo Si-min graduated from the department of economics at Seoul National University. Internet users who encountered the articles criticized former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who instigated the 12·3 riots, by mentioning that he is also a graduate of Seoul National University, and asked, "Weren't you ashamed back then?" In the midst of the debate, Kim Hye-eun deleted the post but criticism continued.
In this context, the timing of Kim Hye-eun's posting of the apology aligns with the regime change following President Lee Jae-myung's election, making it significant. While it could be a mere coincidence, some internet users pointed out that it may be a case of "changing tactics" given the posting's timing.
Meanwhile, Kim Hye-eun appeared in the KBS2 weekend drama "Ironing Family" last year. She will also appear in the upcoming movie "City of Evil," slated for release on the 20th, and has been in the Disney+ production "Knock-Off," although its release was delayed due to controversies surrounding lead actor Kim Soo-hyun's alleged underage dating with the late Kim Sae-ron.
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