Amid the controversy surrounding the careless remarks of Honey J and AIKI, the representative dancers of 'Street Woman Fighter,' both individuals bowed their heads publicly.
The controversy began on the 21st with a reaction video from the first episode of Mnet's 'World of Street Woman Fighter,' uploaded on the YouTube channel 'Today with Hyojin Choi,' run by dancer Hyojin Choi. In the video, Honey J received fierce criticism from viewers after making the remark, "Hey, is that dancing? It's XXing ridiculous," after watching the performance of the Japanese crew Danica. Some internet users interpreted this statement as sexual harassment, leading to a wave of criticism against Honey J.
AIKI, also in the same video, exacerbated the controversy with the insult, "You XXing bitch." As disappointment from fans grew, the two both released official statements and offered their apologies.
First, Honey J bowed her head through her social media on the 22nd, saying, "I deeply apologize to those who were hurt by my careless words and to the many who support me for causing disappointment and discomfort." She continued, "Although my remarks were made in a comfortable atmosphere while watching the first broadcast of 'Street Woman Fighter' with the members, my emotional outburst and harsh expression were undeniably careless, and I am deeply reflecting on the discomfort it caused to viewers."
Honey J also conveyed that she directly apologized to the dancer targeted by her problematic remark. She stated, "As soon as I recognized the situation, I immediately expressed my apology to the dancers of the opposing crew. I appreciate their understanding, even in a potentially unpleasant situation," adding, "I am once again painfully realizing my shortcoming in recognizing the weight of my expressions."
Furthermore, she noted, "Through this incident, I realized how much impact a single remark can have. Moving forward, I will not take any words lightly and will not repeat my mistakes," expressing, "I apologize for disappointing those who have supported me. I will engrave all criticisms deep in my heart and will act more cautiously and deeply in the future."
AIKI also released an apology on the same day. He expressed, "I sincerely apologize to anyone who felt discomfort due to my emotionally charged remarks in the recently released YouTube reaction video." He added, "My passion for the stage led me to express my emotions in the moment, but I realized that those emotions should not cause harm to others," also conveying, "I apologize once again to the opposing crew."
AIKI added, "From now on, I will communicate with attentiveness in any situation. I will gratefully engrave both the sharp criticisms and encouragement in my heart," conveying his intention for self-reflection.
Meanwhile, the controversial reaction video has currently been deleted from the YouTube channel. As interest in broadcasting and dancer culture has increased, attention is focused on what changes may follow these apologies.
[Photo] OSEN DB, video capture
[OSEN]