Jun Hyun-moo, a prominent South Korean broadcaster, has issued an apology following widespread criticism for remarks made during a recent episode of the Disney+ variety show, Battle of Fates. The controversy centers around a discussion concerning the death of Lee Jae-hyun, a police officer who died in the line of duty, and the use of a slang term considered deeply disrespectful when referencing his passing.
The incident unfolded during a segment of the show, where 49 fortune tellers were tasked with analyzing the circumstances surrounding the deaths of several individuals, including both Kim Cheol Hong, a firefighter who died in the 2001 Hongje-dong arson case, and Officer Lee. According to reports, a fortune teller used the term “kalppang” – a slang word associated with stabbing and gang violence – while discussing the manner of Lee’s death. Jun Hyun-moo, as the show’s MC, repeated the term, questioning whether it was “too direct” to apply to a uniformed officer.
The use of the term sparked immediate and intense backlash from the National Police Workers’ Union (NPU) and the Korean Police Service Association (KPSA). The NPU released a statement expressing “anger and devastation” at the cast and crew of Battle of Fates, condemning the trivialization of Officer Lee’s sacrifice. The KPSA echoed these sentiments, stating that the slang term had “driven a nail into the hearts of 140,000 police officers” and represented a “betrayal of humanity” and a “clear secondary harm” to the deceased officer’s family.
The KPSA specifically highlighted the profound disrespect inherent in applying gang-related slang to a law enforcement officer who lost his life serving the public. They argued that even the intention to elicit laughter through such language was unacceptable and deeply offensive.
In response to the mounting criticism, Jun Hyun-moo’s agency, SM C&C, issued a public apology on . The agency acknowledged the hurt caused by the “certain expressions used in the broadcast” and stated that they should have exercised greater caution when discussing the deceased. They also admitted to a lack of sensitivity in the remarks made and pledged to conduct internal reviews to improve standards and ensure greater responsibility in future broadcasts.
Battle of Fates, described as a survival show where fortune tellers compete in various missions, has now found itself at the center of a national conversation about respect for fallen officers and the boundaries of entertainment. The show’s premise, involving the analysis of death circumstances, has come under scrutiny, with critics questioning the appropriateness of turning tragic events into a competitive spectacle.
The incident underscores a growing sensitivity in South Korea regarding the portrayal of public servants and the importance of honoring those who have died in the line of duty. The swift and forceful condemnation from both police unions demonstrates the depth of feeling surrounding this issue and the expectation that public figures will exercise greater care and consideration in their remarks.
Jun Hyun-moo, a well-known figure in the South Korean entertainment industry, previously built a reputation as a trusted announcer. This incident raises questions about his judgment and the potential impact on his public image. While his agency’s apology is a first step, the long-term consequences of this controversy remain to be seen.
The fallout from this incident extends beyond Jun Hyun-moo and Battle of Fates. It serves as a cautionary tale for the entertainment industry as a whole, highlighting the need for greater sensitivity and awareness when dealing with sensitive topics and the legacies of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The demand for the removal of the episode from the Disney+ platform, voiced by the NPU, suggests a desire for accountability and a clear message that such insensitive portrayals will not be tolerated.
As of , Disney+ has not yet publicly responded to the calls for the episode’s removal. The situation continues to develop, and further statements from the platform and the show’s producers are anticipated. The incident is likely to fuel ongoing discussions about ethical considerations in reality television and the responsibility of broadcasters to uphold standards of respect and dignity.
