Irene Apologizes for Power Abuse Controversy: "As Human Bae Joo-hyun, I Won't Disappoint"

Last October Stylist Exposes "Pointing Fingers in My Face... Recorded the Situation at the Time"

Red Velvet Irene. Photo by Irene Instagram capture.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] Irene, who faced a power abuse controversy last year, has once again posted an apology.

On the 15th, Irene stated through the fan community Listen, "First, I wanted to express my sincere apologies for causing great pain and worry to many people due to my shortcomings."

She continued, "Because of the past incident, I received a lot of concern and criticism not only from the public but also from those around me, which gave me time to quietly reflect on myself. And fortunately, I realized that I was able to continue my activities without any major issues thanks to the members, fans, and staff who care for me."

She added, "From now on, as the leader of Red Velvet and as a singer, I will strive not only to show a good image but also not to disappoint you as a person, Bae Joo-hyun. I hope that no one will be blamed anymore because of the trouble caused by my shortcomings."

Earlier, Irene was embroiled in a power abuse controversy following a post by A, a 15-year veteran editor and stylist.

At that time, A said, "Today, I experienced being thoroughly stepped on and oppressed by someone in the position of 'Eul' (a subordinate)," revealing that a certain celebrity angrily pointed a finger at her face and poured out words.

She added, "Even before meeting her, I had to prepare myself mentally just from the stories I heard, but today I was stunned by the electric shock from the protagonist. I could only stand there like a fool, unable to do anything in front of that disgusted face and the trembling human being."

She continued, "After 15 years in this field, I thought I had experienced all kinds of people and had bowed to the hardships of life. I thought I had almost let go, but I was wrong," and added that she recorded the situation when she was subjected to power abuse.

In response, Irene stated that she "apologized directly to the stylist" and expressed remorse.

Below is the full text of Irene's apology.

Hello, this is Irene.

It has been snowing a lot and the weather has gotten colder. How are you all doing? Although it is late, I am nervous to greet you through this writing.

First, I want to sincerely apologize for causing great pain and worry to many people due to my shortcomings.

I started my trainee life in 2009 at the age of 19, and standing before you as Irene of Red Velvet has been my entire life until now. Whether young or old, I have lived in the small society of the entertainment industry, always wanting to do my best in my work, believing that doing well was the most important task given to me. I thought I got along well with those around me, so I did not realize that my way of communication or expression could be problematic, thinking only that communication styles differ from person to person.

Because of the past incident, I received a lot of concern and criticism not only from the public but also from those around me, which gave me time to quietly reflect on myself. And fortunately, I realized that I was able to continue my activities without any major issues thanks to the members, fans, and staff who care for me.

Just as time cannot be turned back, I am making great efforts not to return to my old self. I have realized the weight of my words and actions and will strive to become a more mature person. From now on, as the leader of Red Velvet and as a singer, I will strive not only to show a good image but also not to disappoint you as a person, Bae Joo-hyun.

I hope that no one will be blamed anymore because of the trouble caused by my shortcomings. Although late, I wish you a Happy New Year.