[Focus] Privacy Verification Is Essential... 'Covering Eyes and Saying Aung' Doesn't Work

Photo by Salt Entertainment

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] "The facts have not yet been clearly confirmed."

This is what actor Kim Seon-ho, who was accused of forcing an abortion on the premise of marriage and then turning his back, said two days later. There was no apology or explanation. Is it that he chooses not to, or is he unable to? In the industry, many agree that how one responds is as important as verifying personal matters.

Kim Seon-ho recently gained popularity by appearing in the tvN drama 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.' As the male lead in a romance genre, his sweet image ignited interest. Riding the drama's popularity, he also starred in several commercials. He became the face of companies considered 'trendy,' including pizza, shopping platforms, and masks. Along with his hot popularity, the public's bewilderment over the personal controversy was also significant.

Two days ago, Kim Seon-ho was embroiled in a personal life controversy. On the 18th, a post appeared on an online community claiming that the 'rising star' K had been dating the writer since early last year. The writer revealed that she found out she was pregnant in July last year during their relationship, and K pressured her to have an abortion on the premise of marriage. After several persuasions, she reluctantly underwent the procedure, but K's attitude suddenly changed. She claimed that K later asked for a breakup.

Kim Seon-ho's agency, Salt Entertainment, stated on the morning of the 19th, a day later, "Since the facts have not yet been clearly confirmed, we earnestly ask for a little more patience." They only provided a brief statement and avoided specific comments.

Afterwards, actress Shin Min-a, who worked with him on the drama, conducted a wrap-up interview, while Lee Sang-yi and Jo Han-chul canceled theirs. Given the positive reception at the end, they likely had much to share, but considering the atmosphere, it seems they decided it was inappropriate to conclude with applause.

The advertising industry quickly moved to 'cut ties.' Distribution companies targeting female consumers have been removing his face from their promotions and are watching the situation closely.

Additionally, Kim Seon-ho is currently appearing on KBS2 variety show '2 Days & 1 Night' and is scheduled to film the movie 'Date at 2 O'clock.' If the allegations are confirmed to be true, his withdrawal seems inevitable.

Revelations are continuing across various sectors of society. With the increase in social network service (SNS) usage, the era of one person, one channel has arrived. Now, violence need not be tolerated nor victims endure silently. While there are many positive effects, the anonymity guaranteed also leads to side effects where innocent victims may suffer. However, excluding some malicious cases, the general atmosphere is to listen to the voices of victims.

Recently, many actors and singers have been named as perpetrators of personal misconduct, power abuse, and school violence, becoming the center of controversy. Through this, hidden wrongdoings have been revealed. Once a controversy arises, fans are deeply distressed. Since broadcasters, film productions, and performances involving the actor inevitably suffer losses, they must pay close attention. The consensus is that proper response is as important as verification.

An agency official said, "Recently, there is a trend to thoroughly verify actors, but sometimes personal lives remain unknown. The important thing is the response. Through quick communication, accurate facts must be identified, and if wrongdoing is confirmed, an apology should be issued without delay. A stubborn or evasive 'turning a blind eye' approach is harmful. It can lead to secondary victims. Also, if the allegations are true, it causes the victim to be hurt twice." He added, "There have been cases where unnecessary withdrawal from the situation made it difficult to return, even though a quick apology could have settled the controversy."

The official continued, "When a controversy arises, advertising companies connected to the actor contact us to verify facts. Although contract terms vary, generally there are damage compensation clauses if the actor's image is harmed. When contracted with multiple companies, statements can only be made after reviewing various relationships and legal matters."

The film industry is even stricter. In 2018, during the Me Too movement, many actors were accused as perpetrators, leading to painful experiences where completed films could not be released. A production company official said, "Since Me Too, the film industry has realized the importance of private matters and responds quickly. Strict verification is conducted during casting." He added, "When negative issues arise, to prevent greater damage, quick action is taken to cut ties. Today's audiences are smart and do not forget just because time passes. Since many people's efforts bring a work to the public, one actor's wrongdoing cannot be easily overlooked. No exceptions, even for close friends."