Posted Apology Over Photo Taken During Theater Practice with Co-Actor Amid Criticism of "Lack of Gender Sensitivity"
Actress Jung Ga-eun recently posted a photo on her social networking service (SNS) showing her touching a male actor's buttocks, which led to accusations of sexual harassment, prompting her to issue a public apology.
On the 27th, Jung Ga-eun posted on her Instagram, "Everyone, I posted a scene from the play 'Boeing Boeing' during rehearsals, and my careless words caused discomfort to many of you," adding, "I will be more cautious and careful with my words and actions going forward," in an apology statement.
Actress Jung Ga-eun publicly apologized for a sexual harassment controversy caused by an action during theater practice. [Image source=Jung Ga-eun Instagram capture]
Earlier, on the 25th, Jung Ga-eun shared a photo on her Instagram story with the brief caption, "During play rehearsals, my hand is being spoiled." The photo showed Jung Ga-eun touching the buttocks of a male actor during rehearsals for the play 'Boeing Boeing.' Netizens criticized the act as "sexual harassment" and pointed out a "lack of gender sensitivity." As the criticism grew louder, Jung Ga-eun deleted the post and issued an apology.
Jung Ga-eun married a businessman of the same age in January 2016 and gave birth to a daughter the same year. However, after her ex-husband was accused of fraud involving 13.2 billion won, they divorced by mutual consent in 2018, two years after their marriage. She is raising their only daughter. Last month, through her YouTube channel 'Jung Ga-eun's Nolgoitne,' she belatedly revealed details about the situation surrounding her 2017 divorce.
Recalling the situation, Jung Ga-eun said, "What I regret the most is that when this incident happened, I should have quickly stated my position to people. At that time, there was someone beside me who told me, 'You shouldn't do this,' 'Do this, do that,' but that person told me, 'Don't say anything and keep your mouth shut.'" She continued, "'No matter what you say, the facts will be exaggerated or not believed.'
At the time, she said, "I was very scared. People who were harmed by my ex-husband also contacted me. So I changed my phone number and tried to cover my eyes and ears to avoid seeing or hearing anything," adding, "I don't know if that was a wise decision, but on the other hand, I wonder what would have happened if I had answered all those calls and explained my position." She also emphasized again regarding her ex-husband's fraud charges, "I was never involved. You can believe me," and added, "I hope my child will never be hurt by this again. I don't want to bring this matter back to the surface."
Jung Ga-eun will play the role of Lee Soo in the play 'All Star Boeing Boeing,' which will be performed at Daehangno Art House from October 3 to October 31.
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