Lee Yi-kyung's Privacy Controversy Quickly Resolved, Broadcasting Activities Unaffected
Lee Yi-kyung's Privacy Controversy Quickly Resolved, Broadcasting Activities Unaffected
Actor Lee Yi-kyung's privacy controversy came to an end within just two days, leaving his broadcasting activities largely unaffected.
Agency's Swift Legal Response
On October 20th, Lee Yi-kyung's agency Sangyoung ENT released an official statement addressing the situation. The agency announced they were "preparing legal action regarding damages caused by the spread of false information and malicious rumors currently being posted and distributed on online communities and social media."
That same day, an individual referred to as 'A' posted allegations about Lee Yi-kyung's private life on their blog. Although the post was quickly deleted, screenshots and copies of the content spread rapidly across online communities, prompting the agency's immediate response.
The agency emphasized that they would "calculate the direct and indirect damages caused by the spread of false information and take all necessary measures." They warned that "not only the creation of such content, but also its indiscriminate posting and distribution are subject to legal action."
Accuser's Admission and Apology
Individual A, who claimed to be a German national studying Korean, initially fueled suspicions by sharing alleged conversation records with Lee Yi-kyung through photos and videos on their blog and X (formerly Twitter).
However, two days later on the 22nd, A posted an explanation on their personal channel, stating: "I didn't expect a post that started as a joke would receive so much attention. As I continued writing and using AI photos, it seems I gradually started believing it was real."
A apologized, saying: "I'm truly sorry for spreading what became malicious rumors about the actor. What started as fan sentiment led to emotional involvement. If there are parts I need to take responsibility for, I will." This voluntary apology brought the controversy to a close.
Minimal Impact on Broadcasting Career
Thanks to the swift response, Lee Yi-kyung appeared without any edits on SBS Plus and ENA's variety show "I Am Solo," where he serves as an MC.
Recently, despite being unmarried, Lee Yi-kyung attracted attention with news of joining KBS 2TV's "The Return of Superman" as a new MC. Neither "Superman" nor "Hangout with Yoo" announced any plans for his departure from their programs.
Growing Concerns Over AI Impersonation
Following the incident, A reactivated their deleted X account and addressed netizens suspecting an agreement with the agency, stating: "I didn't receive money and wasn't threatened. This is all I will say."
The incident has raised awareness as recent cases emerge of people suffering financial damages after being deceived by AI impersonations, including one involving actor Lee Jung-jae.
