Kim Jung Hyun Faces Criticism Over Public Apology at 2024 KBS Drama Awards

Kim Jung Hyun, known for his roles in popular K-Dramas, found himself at the center of controversy once again after issuing a public apology during the 2024 KBS Drama Awards. The pre-recorded event, which will air later, marked the actor’s attempt to address past controversies. However, his timing and approach have drawn mixed reactions from fans and netizens alike.

In 2018, Kim Jung Hyun faced backlash for his behavior on the set of the MBC drama Time. Reports at the time alleged that he refused to perform intimate scenes with his co-star, Girls’ Generation’s Seohyun, citing personal discomfort. His actions reportedly caused tension on set and impacted the production.

During his acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Kim Jung Hyun made a heartfelt yet indirect apology. Without naming anyone, he said:
"I reflect on many things. My heart was heavy for a long time. I wanted to apologize."

While some fans appreciated his effort to acknowledge his past actions, others were less forgiving. Many criticized the timing of his apology, particularly because Seohyun, his former co-star, was hosting the event.

One online comment that gained traction read:
"What was Kim Jung Hyun thinking when he apologized to Seohyun, who was hosting, during his own acceptance speech? LOL. For him, it might have been an event that he can forget about once he steps off the stage. But for Seohyun, she has to keep hosting. He didn’t even consider for a second how his bringing up of a personal matter might affect her. Truly impressive, LOL. I have never seen such a late and selfish apology."

김정현은 대체 무슨 생각으로 본인 수상소감 도중에 엠씨 보는 중인 서현한테 사과한 거? ㅋㅋ 본인은 내려가서 박수치면 그만일 스케쥴이고 계속해서 진행해야 하는데 느닷없이 사적인 일 언급당한 상대방 생각은 진짜 조금도 안 하는 거 대단 ㅋㅋ 이렇게까지 느려터지고 이기적인 사과 처음 봄

— 해 (@aboutloveknot) December 31, 2024

Fans who attended the pre-recording of the event confirmed the actor’s statement, but the debate over his intentions continued. While some defended him, arguing that an apology, even late, was better than none, others felt it was an unnecessary distraction during an important event.

• “A public apology only after six years…he should have done it sooner.”
• “His apology is even violent.”
• “He is rude until the end.”
• “He is so rude and does not have an ounce of respect for the victim. This is just his level as a person.”
• “His attitude hasn’t changed then and now.”