Actor Lee Seung Gi has landed in hot water with netizens over his remarks about his wife Lee Da In and her family during promotions for his upcoming film, "Big Family."
"It's a feel-good family comedy, and fans are wondering what the actor really believes in with all the family drama that has ensued.
In June, the acquittal of Lee Seung Gi's father-in-law and his wife, who was indicted on charges of stock price manipulation, was overturned.
The Supreme Court's decision was to remand the case. Later, Lee Seung Gi's agency, Big Planet Made Entertainment, said, "I sincerely ask you not to touch our family."
Lee Seung Gi also expressed his position on social media. Some took issue with Lee Seung Gi's remarks, sparking controversy.
Lee was asked about his personal life and the scrutiny of his wife's family during the news conference.
"I think I have caused the misunderstanding that 'family is not at fault' as the question suggests," he said.
The issues of his wife's family must not interfere with their own household, he stressed.
Lee sought to distance himself from the controversy during the promotion of "Big Family," saying, "I have always said that my wife's family's affairs are my wife's family's affairs.
"However, fans are confused by the wave of statements as they seem to be jarring against film source material that doesn't match Lee's personal beliefs and ideology.
Critics have picked up on the apparent contradiction of shilling a movie about coming together as a family while also pushing people away from their families.
Many fans are feeling disillusioned, with one writing on theqoo: "It calls into question his sincerity and family values."
Lee's comments received a mixed reaction, with online backlash continuing to grow. Others lamented how he can make a movie about family when he is so far away from his.
Others come to his defense, arguing that his personal life should remain separate from his professional work.
Big Family is to come out soon, but it is unknown how this controversy would affect its reception from the audience.
