“This is Lee Jun-hyuk.” He pronounced it relatively clearly and managed to tidy up the situation that followed. However, what came back to broadcaster Jeon Hyun-moo was criticism of his 'sarcastic' attitude. Many netizens pointed out the misplaced fan sentiment and criticized him.
On the 18th, Jeon Hyun-moo took the stage as the MC at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards held at Paradise City Hotel in Incheon, alongside Girls' Generation's Yoona. The first part of the event featured the 'Upbit Popular Star Award' ceremony, selected by global fan votes.
Jeon Hyun-moo announced the winners, including actors Park Bo-gum, Lee Jun-hyuk, Lee Hye-ri, and IU, but it was actor Lee Jun-young who came on stage instead of Lee Jun-hyuk.
Realizing late that it was not him, Lee Jun-young handed the trophy directly to Lee Jun-hyuk. The two ended the potentially awkward situation with a warm hug. During this process, Jeon Hyun-moo also corrected himself by saying, “(The winner is) Lee Jun-hyuk,” while also acknowledging, “Lee Jun-young is also a popular star. I should have pronounced it correctly, and I apologize,” showing a humble attitude as an MC.
In his acceptance speech, Lee Jun-hyuk said, “I hoped something funny would happen while receiving the award, and it turned out like this,” smiling.
Although it was not a major issue, some fans of Lee Jun-young demanded an apology from Jeon Hyun-moo right after the broadcast, sparking controversy. One netizen commented, “I’m angry at the attitude that makes the person who came on stage feel embarrassed and brushes it off. Is this funny? He’s always careless but continues to last long. It’s something to apologize for, yet he’s celebrating and laughing with others,” criticizing Jeon Hyun-moo. Additionally, several international fans also left comments demanding an apology.
However, this reaction is largely seen as a complaint mixed with disappointment from Lee Jun-hyuk's fans. Many netizens responded critically, saying, “It’s not Jeon Hyun-moo’s fault; he even took care of Lee Jun-young once more on purpose. He handled the aftermath well,” “The pronunciation was accurate. The haters really have nothing to do,” “Instead of expressing gratitude for Jeon Hyun-moo cleverly navigating the situation, they are demanding an apology,” “Fans are making Lee Jun-young look bad,” “Blaming Jeon Hyun-moo? Let’s think normally,” and more.
After the awards ceremony, Lee Jun-young posted on his SNS, “I made a nonsensical mistake because I couldn’t hear well on stage,” and added, “I apologize once again to senior Lee Jun-hyuk and his fans. Congratulations on the award.”
Lee Jun-hyuk also responded on SNS, saying, “Thanks to Jun-young, it was fun. Don’t worry too much,” and added, “I made the same mistake at the AAA (Asia Artist Awards). It seems like fate. Let’s have a meal together next time,” wrapping up the incident warmly.
Despite both actors and Jeon Hyun-moo skillfully and naturally concluding the situation, some netizens' somewhat excessive interpretations and criticisms seem to have worsened the situation.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today reporter]
