FT Island's Lee Hong-ki revealed the real reason he was selected as the Korean disliked by Japanese people.
On the 16th, MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ featured guests Jang Geun-suk, Lee Hong-ki, Subin, and Kim Shin-young.
On that day, Lee Hong-ki stated that as much as he is popular in Japan, he also receives hate, saying, “I was selected as one of the 10 Koreans disliked by Japanese people in a Japanese magazine.” Among those who ranked alongside Lee Hong-ki are figure skating star Kim Yuna, the late Lee Kun-hee, chairman of Samsung, and independence activist Ahn Jung-geun.
Lee Hong-ki explained the reason for his ranking, saying, “I was too honest in my reviews on Japanese broadcasts. There was a comparison of food. They showed the same type of pancake and asked, ‘Which one looks more expensive?’ I tasted it and guessed correctly. When they asked, ‘Why does this look cheap?’ I said, ‘It’s made in Japan. It’s too thick and tastes bad.’”
However, Jang Geun-suk revealed, “This is just an explanation, but the dating rumors became a big issue.” The real reason Lee Hong-ki received hate was due to the dating rumors with a top Japanese star.
Flustered, Lee Hong-ki stammered, “(The dating rumors) came out, but I didn’t know. I didn’t know that friend was so popular in Korea. It’s Shinozaki Ai, a gravure model.”
Lee Hong-ki expressed his dissatisfaction to Jang Geun-suk, saying, “You shouldn’t do it this way.” However, Jang Geun-suk pointed out, “Lee Hong-ki was writing a drama by himself. This pancake story is the first I’ve heard of it.”
Lee Hong-ki stated, “I can accurately state the facts. I said it’s not true because we weren’t dating. At that time, it wasn’t true,” reigniting the dating rumors once again. When the MCs pressed, “At that time? What about now?” Lee Hong-ki clarified, “We’re friends.”
Jang Geun-suk joked, “The ripple effect is significant; comments are still being made. They say, ‘Lee Hong-ki is fine because he has that friend,’” to which Lee Hong-ki reacted, “What do you mean I have?” causing laughter.
[Lee Se-bin, Star Today Guest Reporter]
