Broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu posted a lengthy statement addressing allegations that he overlooked workplace harassment suffered by the late Oh Yo-anna.
On the 11th, Jang Sung-kyu opened his statement on Instagram by saying, "Originally, I intended to share my position after the late and her bereaved family found peace, but the family felt sorry that I was experiencing secondary harm and actively encouraged me to clarify, so I cautiously post this message."
He said, "I first met the late around 2022 after finishing a radio broadcast when I went to exercise. She introduced herself as a junior to caster Kim Ga-young and said that Kim was like a role model who cared for and looked after her," he shared.
He continued, "The next day, when I spoke with caster Kim, she also said that the late was a cherished junior, so I thought their relationship was good. Then, the late requested counseling, and while having a meal together, I heard about her concerns related to You Quiz. Based on my experience, I thought the difficulties likely stemmed from jealousy and envy around her, so I encouraged her not to worry and to overcome it," he explained the situation at the time.
He added, "The late shared her concerns once more afterward, and I felt my comfort alone was not enough. So, I talked to caster Kim, who I thought liked and was close to the late, about helping her together." However, Kim reportedly said, "Due to work circumstances, it would be difficult." Jang said he then realized their relationship was different from before.
Jang Sung-kyu emphasized, "I have never heard expressions like 'Oppa, she is a liar,' as mentioned on a certain YouTube channel, nor have I ever relayed phrases like 'Anna, you are a liar, Kim Ga-young said so.'" He said, "Whenever the late shared difficult stories, she always showed determination to overcome them cheerfully, so I judged the difficulties as those one might face in the workplace. I deeply regret not acting more proactively at the time and feel very sorry to the late and her family."
Jang also said, "In May 2024, when I was going on a business trip to Gwangju, the late recommended restaurants through SNS, and we exchanged greetings via direct messages. That was our last communication. If she had considered me a perpetrator or bystander or felt hurt, would she have warmly asked how I was?" he added.
Furthermore, he stated, "Once again, I sincerely pray for the late's repose. I will do anything that can comfort and support the bereaved family. Separately, I will take legal action against those who have crossed the line toward me and my family," he stressed.
Meanwhile, the late, who joined MBC in 2021, passed away in September last year. About three months after her death, on the 27th of last month, her will was reported by a media outlet, and it became known that her family filed a damages lawsuit against MBC employees, raising suspicions that she suffered workplace harassment during her lifetime.
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