[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] Singer Lee Hyori has sparked controversy for conducting a drunken live broadcast at a karaoke room, which is considered a high-risk facility for COVID-19 infection. Amid this, a close associate has spoken out.
On the 2nd, Lee Hyori's close associate said in an interview with a media outlet, "It is true that Lee Hyori visited a karaoke room after having a light drinking session," and added, "She suggested the live broadcast because she wanted to communicate more closely with her fans."
The associate continued, "She did the live broadcast, but after seeing worrying comments, she realized it was careless. After recognizing the mistake, she immediately left the karaoke room and everyone dispersed to their own homes," and conveyed Lee Hyori's situation, saying, "Even if it was done unknowingly, visiting a karaoke room during the COVID-19 pandemic was reckless. She deeply realizes this and is reflecting profoundly and repeatedly."
Furthermore, the associate explained, "We sincerely apologize for disappointing the public," and said, "Above all, Lee Hyori feels very sorry that YoonA, who only followed the suggestion of her senior and older sister, also became embroiled in controversy. She is truly sorry and apologetic and does not know what to do."
Earlier, on the 1st, Lee Hyori posted a photo on her Instagram taken with Girls' Generation member YoonA, with whom she formed a bond through the JTBC variety show 'Hyori's Homestay 2.'
The released photo showed the two wearing similar hats and looking at the camera. There were beer glasses on the table.
Then, after the drinking session, the two started individual Instagram live broadcasts from a karaoke room. While YoonA adjusted the camera, Lee Hyori held the karaoke microphone and explained, "I drank with YoonA and came to a karaoke room in Apgujeong," and YoonA said, "I'm not drunk."
Lee Hyori told YoonA to "choose a song" and continued the live broadcast. Upon seeing a comment from a netizen pointing out the karaoke room visit, she seemed surprised and asked, "Is it not allowed to come to a karaoke room?" Hearing this, YoonA explained, "I came wearing my mask properly." The two quickly put on the masks they had placed on the table.
Eventually, the two ended the live broadcast in less than two minutes, and Lee Hyori deleted the photo she posted that day.
Afterwards, the recorded video spread mainly through online communities, and criticism arose that visiting a karaoke room at a time when COVID-19 cases were continuously occurring was reckless.
In response, on the 2nd, Lee Hyori posted an apology on her social network service (SNS), saying, "I deeply reflect on my inappropriate behavior last night during a time when we still need to be cautious. Recently, I was too excited and did not think deeply. I am sorry to YoonA as an older sister. I will be more careful and act prudently from now on. I apologize once again."
YoonA also posted a handwritten apology, stating, "First, I sincerely reflect on causing concern due to my reckless behavior. I am sorry. During a time when everyone is struggling and needs to be cautious, my thoughts and judgment were lacking. I will make special efforts to act carefully in the future. I deeply reflect on not paying enough attention to the medical staff and citizens who continue to work hard against COVID-19. I apologize once again for causing worry to everyone."
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