Actress Kim Hye-eun mentioned her targeting of writer Yoo Si-min and also referred to her hopes for President Lee Jae-myung.
On Dec. 12 at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Seoul, a press screening for the film 'City of Evil' was held. Attendees included lead actors Han Chae-young, Jang Ui-soo, Kim Hye-eun, and director Hyun Woo-sung.
The film 'City of Evil' (directed by Hyun Woo-sung, co-produced by The Korea Post and ENLIPLE, produced by SFDREAM and DIO, distributed by Film Special City SMC) is a sociopathic thriller that delves into the depths of human nature through the intertwined lives of Yoo-jung (played by Han Chae-young), who believes in goodwill, Kang-soo (played by Jang Ui-soo), who refuses faith, and Seon-hee (played by Hyun Woo-sung), who uses people, set in a catastrophic relationship that ends only in killing or being killed.
Kim Hye-eun played the role of Grace in the film, only appearing in one scene but leaving a strong impression.
Above all, she publicly criticized writer Yoo Si-min last month ahead of the 21st presidential election, sparking heated debates.
At that time, writer Yoo Si-min expressed his opinions regarding Kim Moon-soo's wife, Seol Nan-young, during a YouTube broadcast of 'Kim Eo-jun's Dasvueida,' which caused controversy. His comments were in response to Seol Nan-young's remark that "unions are unattractive and extreme" and ultimately, Yoo Si-min apologized, stating, "It was an excessive expression. It meant I could not make rational judgments."
On May 31, Kim Hye-eun posted on her personal account addressing Yoo Si-min's statements, saying, "I have never felt more ashamed of my Seoul National University degree than yesterday or today. I would like to sincerely apologize on behalf of those affected by my words. The academic achievements and intelligence of a person are just worthless bragging in front of those who speak of life as a testament to the hardships of existence. Those who judge and belittle others without care possess the most disgraceful tongue."
Kim Hye-eun studied vocal music at Seoul National University, while Yoo Si-min graduated from the Department of Economics at Seoul National University. Netizens noted that former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who triggered the incident of Dec 12-3, is also an alumnus of Seoul National University's law school, asking, 'Weren't you ashamed then?' Amid the debates, Kim Hye-eun deleted the post, but the criticism persisted.
On June 3, President Lee Jae-myung was elected as the 21st president through the election, marking a change of administration. The next day, Kim Hye-eun apologized for her previous criticisms of writer Yoo Si-min in a handwritten letter.
Kim Hye-eun posted a handwritten apology on social media stating, "I sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable or disheartened due to the post I made on May 31. I recognize that the responsibility for those emotions lies entirely with me, and I deeply reflect on it.”
She added, "As someone who has been speaking for a long time, this incident has taught me once again about the weight of words. I will not forget that realization and strive to be a more self-disciplined actress. As a citizen who loves Korea, I hope for a happier Korea, a developed Korea, and a Korea that stands tall in the world." Currently, the apology has been removed.
On the day, when asked, "There was a recent noteworthy incident; do you have any additional remarks?" the moderator suggested, "Please only ask questions related to the work," indicating a preventative attitude.
However, Kim Hye-eun grabbed the microphone and said, "I have had great compassion for women and the disadvantaged, but when I wrote that post, it grew larger than I anticipated (the controversy). As a result, I feel ashamed as someone working as an actress."
Additionally, Kim Hye-eun mentioned President Lee Jae-myung. "Since President Lee has been elected as the president chosen by the people, I believe that Korea must succeed above all," she said, "Especially the film industry is struggling, and as K-content is gaining international status, the production environment has become difficult with fewer dramas and films being produced. I hope that in the cultural sector, Korea can achieve the status of a cultural powerhouse."
'City of Evil' is set to be released on the 20th.
[Photo] Kim Seong-lak, Reporter
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