He apologized, stating he did not adequately consider the circumstances.
This incident serves as a reminder of the significance of a celebrity's statements.
[TV Daily reporter Choi Ha-na] Kim Dong-wan of Shinhwa has publicly retracted his support for MC Ding-dong, who is embroiled in an assault controversy. On the 22nd, he stated on social media, "I didn't adequately consider the circumstances. I will delete the post," indicating a change in his stance. Previously, he had made a post urging support for MC Ding-dong, asking, "Who would support Ding-dong for no reason!?" but faced strong backlash from the public. MC Ding-dong sparked outrage when he was accused of grabbing the hair of a female BJ during a live broadcast after being questioned about a past DUI and fleeing incident. This immediate public disapproval led Kim Dong-wan to delete the post, acknowledging his lack of empathy.
This incident highlights how a celebrity's statements can significantly impact public opinion. Kim Dong-wan, as the leader of Shinhwa, is criticized for not fully considering the weight of his words. While his initial support might have seemed benign, it revealed how sensitive the public is to MC Ding-dong's past and present actions. Thus, there is a pressing need for awareness regarding how public figures’ statements provoke reactions from the audience.
Kim Dong-wan's actions also raise questions about the image he wishes to cultivate. Having been part of a long-standing idol group, Shinhwa has consistently provided a positive image to its fans. However, this event places his credibility and relationship with fans in jeopardy. Regardless of his stance, maintaining a positive resonance with fans appears crucial in this context.
Celebrities exposed through programs and broadcasts must acknowledge their substantial influence. This incident serves as a vivid reminder for artists to be more cautious with their statements in the future. In this process, they need to reconsider how they can sustain their relationship with followers.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: DB
