사진 확대

사진 확대

"Sister, rather marry me."

This is a heartfelt shout from a fan after the wedding meeting video of Shinji from the group Koyote was released.

Some argue that even the 12·3 emergency martial law could not unify public opinion and instead caused division, but Shinji's marriage is seen as an event that achieved 'national unity' that the entire nation is trying to dissuade. Online communities, male and female cafes, and social media are all shouting in unison, "Don't marry!"

Whenever a celebrity announces their marriage, there are usually mixed opinions. Objectively, even when introducing a partner that anyone can see as disappointing, it is often met with sarcasm like 'birds of a feather flock together' or 'you make your own fate.'

However, in Shinji's case, the public opinion against the marriage is overwhelming. It seems difficult to achieve such a strong unified voice of opposition. There are even more posts that appeal emotionally, pleading, "Please don't let this happen" and "Think again."

When the news of Shinji's marriage broke on the 23rd of last month, as she entered her 40s, fans and the public all united in blessing her marriage and wishing her happiness. However, following the release of the wedding meeting video with Moonwon and Koyote members on the 2nd, public opinion shifted to a resolute opposition to the marriage.

The impact of the short video, just over 13 minutes long, was tremendous. Shinji's YouTube channel, which had only about 6,000 subscribers, surpassed 16,000 just two days after the video was released. The view count reached a staggering 3.44 million.

In the video, Moonwon confessed to his divorce and that he has children. The fact that he did not disclose this from the beginning while dating Shinji also sparked public anger, but there was something more important.

It was Moonwon's 'attitude' revealed in the video. While he used honorifics when mentioning his ex-wife, he referred to Shinji, who is 7 years older and a senior, with derogatory terms like 'Jiseon' and 'this friend.' Additionally, despite being in a difficult position to disclose such important matters, he mentioned wanting to wear sweatpants, leading to criticism of his 'lack of basic manners.'

Moreover, Moonwon repeatedly said, "I didn't know Jiseon was such a famous person," which led to negative opinions forming, questioning whether it was an attempt at gaslighting, typical phrases used by con artists, and wondering how anyone in Korea could not know Koyote.

In the comments of the video, numerous suspicions about Moonwon were raised. Claims included that he had married due to a premarital pregnancy while having an affair, that he made military service difficult for others, and that he was involved in fraudulent real estate dealings.

사진 확대

As the controversy arose, Moonwon issued a statement on the 3rd, admitting, "It is true that I worked in real estate without a real estate agent license." He also acknowledged that he married due to a premarital pregnancy with his ex-wife.

However, he denied claims of being bullied during school and military service and allegations of having had an affair in the past.

Despite Moonwon's active clarifications, he could not soothe the fans' hearts. This stems from the public's affection for Shinji and Koyote. Koyote is a group that symbolizes a generation. Since their debut in 1998, they have maintained their position at the top for 28 years. Thanks to this, Shinji has become one of the few stars for whom the title 'national younger sister' does not feel out of place.

For the 7080 generation, they are an icon that evokes nostalgia, reminding them of their youth. When recalling those happy young days, songs that automatically come to mind like background music. Koyote holds a significant place among them.

Just a single line from the OST of the animation 'One Piece,' "By chance in my childhood~," makes the MZ generation born in the 1990s and 2000s' hearts race. It symbolizes the days of their youth when they truly held dreams of success.

As Koyote was a 'public pick' national singer, it is not an exaggeration to say that everyone holds them dear, even if they are not their favorite. It is a natural progression for those who initially sent support and blessings upon hearing the news of Shinji's marriage to suddenly light up with 'resolute opposition to the marriage.'

The only confirmed allegations against the prospective groom are real estate dealings without a license and premarital pregnancy with his ex-wife. As he is truly 'unknown,' the character of Moonwon is not well understood, nor is there a way to know. However, as a reporter observing this controversy from a distance, I am sorry but I want to shout this.

"Sister, if this is the case, rather marry me. I will treat you well!"