FT Island's Lee Hong-ki revealed the reason he was selected as a disliked Korean by the Japanese.
On the MBC show 'Radio Star' aired on the 16th, 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 the Japanese in a Japanese magazine."
He added, "Notable figures on the list include figure skater Kim Yuna, the late Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, and independence activist Ahn Jung-geun."
Regarding the reason for his ranking, Lee Hong-ki explained, "I reviewed too honestly on a Japanese broadcast. There was a comparison of food. They showed the same type of pancake and asked, 'Which one looks more expensive?' so I tasted it and guessed correctly."
He continued, "When they asked, 'Why does this look cheap?' I said, 'It's made in Japan. It's too thick and not tasty.'
However, Jang Geun-seok revealed, "This is just an explanation, but the dating rumors became a big issue." He disclosed that the real reason Lee Hong-ki received hate was due to dating rumors with a top Japanese star.
A flustered Lee Hong-ki responded, "(The dating rumors) came out, but I didn't know. I didn't realize that friend was so popular in Korea. It's Shinozaki Ai, a gravure model," and then told Jang Geun-seok, "You shouldn't do this."
However, Jang Geun-seok emphasized again, "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 wasn't true because we weren't dating. At that time, it wasn't true."
In response, the MCs asked, "At that time? What about now?" and Lee Hong-ki clarified, "We're friends," drawing attention.
