PD Who Constantly Criticized Elderly Cast Member
"Rude"... MBC Deletes Replay of Episode Amid Viewer Backlash
The production team of MBC's current affairs and educational program sparked controversy for showing disrespectful behavior toward an elderly guest. Viewers have demanded an official apology, saying, "We felt uncomfortable throughout the entire broadcast."
On the 1st, the MBC program 'OneulN' segment 'Jochi Anihanga' introduced the story of an elderly man living in a remote mountain village in Pohang-si, Gyeongbuk, where he built and resides in three houses. During the broadcast, a producer nicknamed 'City PD' asked the 69-year-old gentleman somewhat rude questions such as, "Are you really good at chopping firewood like this?" and "You live in the countryside, but did you get eyebrow tattoos?"
The PD of the MBC educational program segment 'OneulN' titled 'Jochi Anihan Ga' has caused controversy by showing rude behavior towards the cast members. MBC
When the elderly man introduced the three houses he built, including a yellow soil room and a music room, the producer asked with a frown, "You must have some money. Do you have a lot of money?" In response to the gentleman's comment, "I don't sleep in the room. It's much better to light a fire in the yellow soil room and sleep there. It's warm and good for health. Don't many people go for yellow soil therapy?" the producer replied, "I don't go often. I'm not at the age to appreciate yellow soil rooms yet."
When the elderly man offered to give some oyster mushrooms he grew himself, saying, "You can't see these in Seoul, right? I'll pack some when you go to Seoul," the producer brusquely responded, "They're all available at Seoul supermarkets. What's different?" Then, as the elderly man said, "Since you came from Seoul, I want to prepare a delicious chicken for you," and grilled a chicken over charcoal, the producer snapped back, "I only like chicken as fried chicken. I only like it fried."
After the broadcast, the 'OneulN' viewer board was flooded with posts criticizing the production team's attitude. Viewers left comments such as, "The tone of disrespect toward the elderly made me uncomfortable throughout," "If you don't want to work, just quit," "Please apologize properly to the elderly," "Inappropriate language and behavior," and "No professional spirit and very rude," demanding an apology from the production team. There were also posts calling for the replacement of the PD and complaints filed with the Broadcast Review Board.
In response to the controversy, MBC has currently suspended the replay of the broadcast. However, they have not yet issued an official statement regarding the matter.
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