Suspicion Raised Over 'Garosero Research Institute'
[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] Amid reports that KBS announcer Han Sang-heon will be stepping down from the program he is currently appearing on, KBS has stated that the reports are "unfounded."
On the 19th, a media outlet reported that announcer Han Sang-heon would be leaving KBS2's 'Saengsaeng Information' for personal reasons. However, KBS responded, "The report of voluntary resignation is not true," adding cautiously, "We are internally verifying the rumors."
Earlier, on the 18th, a video titled "KBS The Live Host Han Sang-heon Announcer's Frequent Sexual Relationship Controversy" was uploaded on the YouTube channel 'Garosero Research Institute.'
On that day, 'Gaseyeon' referred to an article about a male announcer who was reportedly blackmailed for 300 million won, which was reported on the 14th.
Former reporter Kim Yong-ho said, "It is not easy to be asked for as much as 300 million won," and described it as "a ridiculous incident where the demand was made without considering the announcer's salary or the reality."
He revealed, "He met hostess A at a nightlife establishment last year, exchanged contact information, and met about once every 2 to 3 weeks to have sexual relations."
Following this, Kang Yong-seok mentioned by name, "This person is so unknown that I recognized him by face. Han Sang-heon, who appears on the left-leaning 'The Live,'" causing a stir.
On the 20th, a post urging announcer Han Sangheon to step down was uploaded on the online viewer board of KBS1's 'The Live'. Photo by KBS1 'The Live' viewer board capture
As this video spread, netizens have been calling for announcer Han Sang-heon to step down.
Currently, on the KBS1 'The Live' viewer board, posts demanding explanations and criticizing the revelations about Han Sang-heon's private life are being posted.
Meanwhile, Han Sang-heon joined KBS in 2011 as part of the 38th public recruitment of announcers. He has served as the main MC for major sports events such as the Olympics and Asian Games and has hosted programs like 'Chujeok 60 Minutes' and 'Heavenly Collection.'
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