Posted Another Appeal After Apology
Netizens Still Engaged in Heated Debate
The owner of a business suffering damages due to former South Korean national archer Ansan's 'traitor' remark expressed frustration even after Ansan's apology.
On the 20th, Kwon Sun-ho, CEO of Special Night, said on Instagram, "After the controversy, I searched for athlete Ansan," adding, "I saw a warm family scene, friends, and moments with coaches. These were familiar scenes that I and my peers around me could also see. The athlete must be going through a very difficult time right now." However, he appealed, "What is left for us now? Who benefits from the ensuing rumors and debates?" He continued, "How could I possibly understand the heart of a parent who hears their child being told 'I wish you were dead'? How much pain is there behind the smiling voice on the other end of the phone?" He shared his difficult feelings, saying, "After becoming a pro-Japanese brand run by descendants of collaborators, and then hearing news that I made an extreme choice, how must the hearts of those close to me feel?"
He stated, "The Korea Archery Association and the athlete's management contacted me several times, saying they wanted to meet and apologize in person," adding, "Despite my appeals, malicious comments and rumors continue to arise, and all stores are still receiving rating attacks." He went on, "When the Korea Archery Association and the company suggested meeting, I didn't know how to respond or what to say if we met, and time just passed again," expressing, "I miss the time last week when I was contemplating launching a new menu. How can we return to the way things were?"
Earlier, on the 16th, Ansan posted on her Instagram story a photo with the caption, "Why are there so many traitors in Korea?" The photo showed an electronic signboard with the Japanese-style Chinese characters '?際線 出?(日本行)', meaning 'International Line Departure (to Japan)'. The place she referred to is known as a domestic brand chain of izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) located in the Cheomdan district of Gwangju Metropolitan City, decorated in a Japanese style and selling Japanese food. After the business owner Mr. Kwon received criticism from netizens, he expressed his feelings, saying, "Due to the resulting rumors and speculation, I was instantly labeled as a descendant of pro-Japanese collaborators, and my brand became a traitor brand." The Self-Employed Solidarity, a nationwide association of self-employed business owners, also filed a complaint accusing Ansan of defamation. As the controversy intensified, Ansan apologized on her SNS on the 19th, saying, "I did not know it would cause such great harm. I never intended to belittle anyone."
Netizens are divided, with some saying, "More people are uncomfortable with the sign written in Japanese," and "Ansan did not need to apologize," while others argue, "Still, Ansan was careless to single out a specific business," sparking heated debate.
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