Controversy on SNS for 7 Days... "What Are You Doing in This Situation?"
First Official Statement at a Performance After 20 Days
Singer Lim Young-woong has expressed his position for the first time following the so-called ‘Mwo-yo’ controversy related to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s December 3rd insurrection incident.
On the 27th, Lim Young-woong took the stage at the ‘Lim Young-woong Recital (RE:CITAL)’ concert held at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul and said, “I caused you all worry and concern,” adding, “I want to take this opportunity to sincerely apologize.”
Earlier, on the 7th, Lim Young-woong shared a photo with his pet dog on his social media and wrote, “Happy birthday to our Siwol.”
That day was when the impeachment motion against President Yoon was put to a vote in the National Assembly plenary session regarding the December 3rd insurrection incident, and nationwide candlelight rallies demanding the president’s impeachment were held.
Because of this, a netizen claimed to have exchanged direct messages (DMs) with Lim Young-woong and released them, sparking controversy. The netizen asked critically through DM, “What are you doing in this situation?” to which Lim Young-woong replied, “Mwo-yo?” (What?).
The netizen then pointed out, “The whole nation is gathered over the unconstitutional declaration of martial law and the impeachment motion against the president, and while I don’t expect you to raise your voice, this is really insensitive.” Lim Young-woong responded, “Am I a politician? Why should I raise my voice?”
Direct message (DM) content exchanged between Lim Young-woong and an internet user has been revealed. Online community
Following Lim Young-woong’s response, heated debates arose on online communities. Some understood it as “Celebrities speaking out on social and political issues have never led to good outcomes,” while others criticized, “Given the situation, shouldn’t everyday posts be refrained from?”
Regarding this, neither Lim Young-woong nor his agency issued any statements. It was also not clearly confirmed whether the messages were actually sent by Lim Young-woong.
In response, seemingly aware of the controversy, Lim Young-woong spoke out for the first time at the concert 20 days later. He said, “I am someone who brings joy, comfort, and happiness through my songs,” and added, “I will come back with a better and more developed image.”
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