[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kang Juhee] Medical journalist Hong Hyegul has rebutted criticisms from conservative media.
On the 3rd, Hong Hyegul wrote on his Facebook, "I run a medical YouTube channel called 'Biondwi.' Unlike other YouTube channels that create short videos for entertainment, we mainly do live broadcasts lasting over an hour."
He explained, "However, trouble arose recently. A psychiatrist appearing on our channel, who is the son of former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon, made a joke during a live broadcast saying, 'COVID-19 comes out through the nose,' which became problematic."
He continued, "Conservative media collectively criticized him, and the responsibility also fell on me. Looking at the comments, they are full of accusations like 'You invited him hoping for a position later on.'"
Hong Hyegul clarified, "His remark was made three weeks ago before the COVID-19 situation became as serious as it is now. Also, his comment was not meant to mock the infected but was a spontaneous remark reflecting the thought that the atmosphere did not need to be too stiff."
He added, "Afterwards, he apologized through our channel and removed the problematic video. As the channel operator, I cannot say I bear no responsibility either. I sincerely apologize here to those who were hurt by his remarks. I hope you will kindly understand."
Hong Hyegul then shared difficulties related to his activities. He said, "These days, I am diligently posting articles related to COVID-19 to provide accurate information as an expert. But it is becoming increasingly difficult because people evaluate my posts only from their own political camps."
He continued, "For example, if I advocate for 'banning entry from China,' I am criticized as 'Shincheonji.' If I say 'when masks are scarce, you can wear one for a week,' I am criticized as 'Daeggae-moon' (a derogatory term for blind supporters of President Moon Jae-in)." He added, "Everyone enthusiastically cheers when someone presents a theory that excellently covers the weaknesses of their own camp or sharply criticizes the opposing camp."
Hong Hyegul stated, "I am neither progressive nor conservative. I have no intention of entering politics. Even now, photos circulate on social media claiming I held a party celebrating the impeachment of President Roh Moo-hyun. That is completely untrue. Also, I officially supported Ahn Hee-jung from the progressive camp in the last presidential election."
He added, "Honestly, I hope for a political force that combines the right half of the current Democratic Party and the left half of the United Future Party. However, the reality is different, and instead, the voices of the left half of the Democratic Party and the right half of the United Future Party are growing louder."
Finally, Hong Hyegul said, "Please do not express your emotions with hateful language. Although we have different thoughts, let us believe that the underlying intention is love for the country. I sincerely hope that through the COVID-19 crisis, a rational and warm moderate political force will lead our politics."
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