'Insulting the Statue of a Girl' US YouTuber Suddenly Changes Attitude: "Please Accept My Apology"

"I Didn't Know the Importance of the Statue of a Girl" Claim
"Sorry for Being Rude" Apology in Korean
Netizens Criticize "Doubt the Sincerity"

American YouTuber Johnny Somali (24), who caused controversy by engaging in various eccentric behaviors across South Korea, has posted an apology video. YouTube channel 'J Company'

American YouTuber Johnny Somaly (24), who faced backlash for bizarre acts such as kissing the Statue of Peace, has expressed his apology.

On the 6th, Somaly revealed a visit to the Statue of Peace installed at Changdong Station History and Culture Park in Dobong-gu, Seoul, through his YouTube channel 'J Company.' In the video, he said, "I want to apologize to Koreans. I did not understand the importance of the Statue of Peace." He continued, "It was an act intended to make people watching my broadcast in the U.S. laugh, but after seeing Koreans' reactions later, I realized I hurt your feelings."

Regarding his visit to Korea, he explained, "I did not intend to cause such a commotion; I wanted to create good content through my broadcast," emphasizing, "I did not mean to cause pain to anyone, put anyone in trouble, send anyone to jail, or cause any assault incidents." He added, "There is a different kind of comedy culture in the U.S., but I learned that Korea is a place where hurting Koreans' pride and culture is not tolerated."

He also said, "I think trying to kill me or assaulting me is too much," but added, "However, I understood why they reacted that way and how much pain I caused. Since I feel remorse for the hurt I caused, I think it is right to apologize." Somaly bowed his head and apologized in Korean, saying, "I am truly sorry for being rude," and added, "I am willing to meet the comfort women victims in person. I want to interview them and learn about their history."

However, criticism has also been raised questioning the sincerity of his apology, as Somaly left the controversial videos on his social media (SNS) unchanged. Most netizens responded negatively, saying, "He did all kinds of strange things and now apologizing is meaningless," "I no longer trust this person," and "It only looks like an attempt to cover up as the situation worsens."

Previously, Somaly had posted videos showing various bizarre behaviors, such as causing disturbances in convenience stores and watching obscene material on the subway, which put him under scrutiny. Especially, his dancing and kissing in front of the Statue of Peace angered the public and became the center of controversy. He also referred to the comfort women victims as "prostitutes," claiming they were "voluntary and legally paid for their work." Currently, the police are investigating Somaly on charges including obstruction of business, drug use, and violations of the Special Act on Sexual Violence (production and distribution of deepfake sexual crime materials).