"Seol Min-seok Returns to Broadcasting Amid 'Thesis Plagiarism and Historical Distortion' Controversy... 'Will Repay with Genuine Content'"

Revealing Feelings About Comeback Through SNS

History lecturer Seol Min-seok announced that he will return to broadcasting.
Photo by Seol's YouTube channel capture.

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] History lecturer Seol Min-seok, who faced controversy over plagiarism and historical distortion, has expressed his feelings about returning to broadcasting through social media (SNS).

On the 15th, Seol posted on his Facebook, "Since stepping down from all broadcasts in December 2020 due to plagiarism of my master's thesis and delivering inaccurate information during broadcasts, I have spent a time of deep reflection."

He continued, "I am dedicating myself to research with the mindset I had when I first encountered history, taking time to reflect on myself. I have been preparing diligently to repay those who have generously given their love and advice with sincere content, and I will soon be able to greet you all again."

Regarding his return to broadcasting, Seol said, "I do not think my mistakes will be easily forgiven with such a short period of self-restraint. From now on, I will fulfill my role as an information provider with a more thorough and responsible attitude."

Seol had suspended his activities in December 2020 amid plagiarism and historical distortion controversies. Allegations of plagiarism arose concerning his master's thesis in history education titled "A Study on Ideological Controversies in the Description of Modern and Contemporary Korean History Textbooks," submitted to Yonsei University Graduate School of Education in 2010. The controversy intensified when factual inaccuracies were found in the tvN entertainment program "Seol Min-seok's Naked History," which bore his name.

At the time, Seol stated, "It was an inexcusable mistake," and apologized deeply, saying, "As an educator and a person studying history, I regret my complacent attitude." Afterward, he stepped down from all broadcasts he was appearing on and took time for self-reflection.

Meanwhile, Seol will return to broadcasting as the MC of the MBN entertainment program "Greek and Roman Mythology - The Private Lives of the Gods," which will air its first episode early next month. The show interprets Greek and Roman mythology and features actress Han Ga-in, Professor Kim Heon from Seoul National University Institute of Humanities, and creative director Han Jemma.