Announcer Lee Yoon-ji Apologizes for Saying Deceased Daegu High School Student Was "Fortunately Negative for COVID-19"

Yonhap News TV announcer Yoonji Lee / Photo by announcer Yoonji Lee Instagram

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kang Juhee] Yonhap News TV announcer Lee Yoonji apologized for expressing "fortunately" when reporting that a 17-year-old high school student in Daegu who died of pneumonia tested negative for the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

On the 24th, announcer Lee Yoonji posted on her Instagram, "As an anchor of a news channel, I sincerely apologize for causing hurt to the deceased, their bereaved family, and viewers due to my inappropriate expression," and added, "At a time when the whole nation’s heart is more painful and confused than ever due to the COVID-19 situation, my immaturity as an anchor caused great pain to many, including the deceased."

She continued, "The problematic expression 'fortunately' I used was entirely my fault and mistake, arising from concerns related to the current situation such as fears of infection spreading to new communities if a positive COVID-19 diagnosis were confirmed, and the need to reassess the fatality rate among younger age groups," and said, "Using the word 'fortunate' when reporting the news of the deceased was very inappropriate. Above all, I sincerely apologize to the bereaved family who must have been deeply hurt once again because of this."

The announcer stated, "I am reflecting on this controversy caused by my immaturity. I will accept all criticism and harsh words," and explained, "However, the claim that this was a political expression is completely false and a distortion. Over the past year and a half, I have never intended to include any personal intentions or thoughts while delivering the news."

She added, "The process of delivering breaking news live is instantaneous. Since I have to immediately form sentences from suddenly received information, there is no room to include any specific intention. Moreover, I am just a very inexperienced rookie announcer who is far from capable of intentionally conveying meaning in such a brief moment. I still have many shortcomings. Please criticize only my shortcomings without distortion."

Finally, she said, "Every day, I strive to deliver the rapidly changing information and new updates about COVID-19 accurately and promptly. It pains me deeply that my big mistake in this process caused even greater hurt and suffering to the deceased, their bereaved family, and viewers," and added, "I will not forget this incident and will pay more careful attention. Once again, I bow my head and apologize. I am sorry."

Announcer Lee Yoonji sparked controversy after reporting breaking news on the 19th, saying, "The 17-year-old high school student in Daegu who was confirmed to have died of pneumonia fortunately tested negative for COVID-19 in the final result." After the broadcast, netizens criticized the use of the word "fortunately" as inappropriate.