'Insincere Apology Criticism' GwakTube "First Proposed Trip to Inaeun... Deeply Reflecting" Second Apology

"Confessing 'I am a victim of school violence,' GwakTube
Controversy over traveling with Lee Na-eun, who faced 'member ostracism'
'Deeply reflecting... Bowing head to apologize'"

YouTuber KwakTube received criticism after posting a travelogue of his trip to Italy with actress Lee Na-eun. Source: Screenshot from YouTube channel 'KwakTube'

Travel YouTuber GwakTube (real name Gwak Junbin) apologized again as the controversy over his defense of a school violence perpetrator grew.

On the 18th, GwakTube posted a second statement on the community tab of his YouTube channel, saying, "At the time I made the video private, I was overwhelmed and fearful, and I felt the need to quickly post an apology. Now, I wrote this to convey my thoughts with a calmer mind."

He continued, "I sincerely apologize for causing discomfort to many people by uploading and then making the Italy video private. After making the video private, I collected myself and carefully reviewed the related content as well as each comment left by viewers. I realized that I was ignorant and reckless, and I deeply regret it." He also explained, "I initially blocked Lee Naeun, thinking she was a school violence perpetrator, but after reading the court ruling article, I felt sorry for the misunderstanding. Then, by chance, I became acquainted with Lee Naeun, and without any other thoughts, only feeling sorry, I suggested the Italy trip."

He added, "As I have stated in various media, I am a victim of school violence and even now, time having passed, I carry scars like stains. The depth and marks of wounds differ for everyone, but I arrogantly thought that since I also have wounds, I could understand this issue better than anyone else." Furthermore, he said, "I failed to carefully consider that my arrogant and wrong judgment could cause further wounds to the victim. I apologize to the victims who were hurt again by the mention of past events due to this incident. It is my fault without any excuse."

In conclusion, he said, "I have felt and reflected a lot on my shortcomings because of this incident. From now on, I will be more responsible and cautious in everything to avoid words or actions that could hurt someone. I will not forget that the current GwakTube exists because of your interest and encouragement, and I will look back on myself. I bow my head once again to apologize for causing concern during the Chuseok holiday."

Earlier, on the 16th, GwakTube uploaded a video of his trip to Italy with Lee Naeun, a former member of the group April, and faced public backlash. Lee Naeun had previously suspended her activities amid controversy over allegedly ostracizing fellow group members. This was criticized as contradictory to GwakTube’s usual stance as a victim of school violence. He took down the video that afternoon and posted a first apology, but netizens criticized it as "insincere."