On September 17, comedian Jang Dong Min expressed his opinions about the difficulties faced by Korean entertainers who are asked to reflect upon their actions. The star was a fixture on shows like "Beatles Code 2" and appeared in the drama, "Sweden Laundry." However, his success was marred in 2015 by a series of comments that were deemed inappropriate.
An article published by OSEN provided the comedy star and actor with a platform to release his frustration about the concept of taking time away from work for reflection, a request which is often made of K-entertainers who are involved in a scandal.
"It's cruel to be expected to give up your job to be responsible for your mistake," said Jang in the headline used by OSEN for the article.
While his story had little impact on international Hallyu fans, it ruled domestic headlines. Jang was rumored to be the sixth man on the popular variety show, "Infinite Challenge." However, the position was filled by ZE:A's Hwang Kwangmin, after the controversy surrounding Jang sparked criticism from audiences.
The former radio and television host was challenged to take time off from his work in April 2015, when he was embroiled in a scandal regarding several comments that were considered to be offensive to women and the survivor of the tragic Sampoong Department Store accident. His dispute with the accident survivor was later settled when he expressed his sincere apology through a handwritten letter.
He continued to express his opinion about the practice of having to on reflect on one's actions.
"Whether a celebrity chooses to quit broadcast work after making a mistake is their own judgment," said Jang. "But my judgment is that I'd rather ask of forgiveness while serving my role as the breadwinner [of my household], to provide viewers with laughter along with my apology."
His statements address an issue that plagues stars working in the variety sector, K-Drama, and K-pop.
In the past year, Korean entertainment headlines have been dominated with scandals that have led celebrities to refrain from promotional activities. The severity of the scandals include alleged prescription drug abuse to the alleged use of profanity on the set of a variety show.
The scandal involving actress Lee Tae Im and Yewon drew attention to the seemingly unfair nature of periods of reflection.
In February 2015, Lee voluntarily left from "My Tutor Friend" and "My Heart Twinkle Twinkle," after she became embroiled in a scandal where she allegedly cursed at Yewon during a variety show taping.
When video footage of the incident that was released in March 2015, revealed that claims made by Yewon were inconsistent with her initial story, Lee continued her period of reflection. However, Yewon remained as a fixed guest on "We Got Married," until departing in June 2015.
While Jang Dong Min may have made statements that offended audiences, his stance on reflection could signal a revolutionary approach to scandals in Korean entertainment.
What are your thoughts on periods of reflection, particularly when Korean stars are involved in scandals?
