Gong Hyeong-jin Criticized for Treating Cha Ji-yeon Like a Junior at FEBC Korea Event, Months After Returning to TV
Actor Gong Hyeong-jin drew online criticism for rude remarks toward musical actress Cha Ji-yeon while co-hosting a special performance at an FEBC Korea event at Hanyang University. He returned to television in August after seven years.
Social media and online communities have been flooded with criticism of actor Gong Hyeong-jin, who returned to broadcasting in August after seven years away. Comments such as "He is overbearing" and "It was uncomfortable the whole time" followed the release of a video of him co-hosting with musical actress Cha Ji-yeon.
Demands for a second bow
Gong Hyeong-jin was co-hosting with Cha Ji-yeon at a special performance at the FEBC Korea 70th anniversary homecoming day, held at Hanyang University in Seoul on the 17th. Cha Ji-yeon bowed at 90 degrees, but he demanded, "I'm your senior, so bow once more."
When a photo of Cha Ji-yeon appeared on the stage screen, he complained, "I'm far more senior than her, so why isn't my photo up there?" He also cut in as she introduced songs or sang, saying "Why are you acting?" and "Cut," and spoke to her in informal language, making viewers uncomfortable.
A second round of criticism
In 2020, Gong Hyeong-jin was involved in a controversy after declaring himself a devoted fan of the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute. His return to television came in August, but the latest episode has brought fresh criticism.
Covers K-pop for KSW Journal, and also writes about Culture and K-Variety.
Comments 0
Comments are currently disabled.