Singer Lim Young-woong, who had remained silent about the controversy surrounding his DM (direct message) remarks, spoke up in front of his fans.
On the 27th, Lim Young-woong held the first day of his ‘Lim Young-woong Recital’ concert at Gocheok Sky Dome in Guro-gu, Seoul. On this day, he stated, “I apologize for causing you worry and concern. I am a singer. I am someone who brings joy and comfort through music. I will come back with an even better and developed version of myself.” In response, fans reportedly cheered him on with even louder applause.
On the 7th, Lim Young-woong posted a casual photo with his pet dog on his SNS, saying, “Happy birthday to our October.” This day was also when the first National Assembly impeachment vote against President Yoon Suk-yeol took place, and candlelight vigils demanding the president's impeachment were held nationwide.
A netizen sparked controversy by revealing a DM they claimed to have exchanged with Lim Young-woong regarding this post. In the DM, the netizen asked, “What are you doing in this situation?” in a critical tone, to which Lim Young-woong replied, “What?” The netizen then pointed out, “While the entire nation is gathered over the impeachment motion against a president who declared martial law unconstitutionally, I don’t expect you to raise your voice, but it’s really insensitive. Aren’t the people from the previous martial law generation your main audience?” Lim Young-woong countered, “Am I a politician? Why should I raise my voice?”
Following Lim Young-woong's response, there was a heated debate. Among netizens, some expressed understanding, saying, “Hasn’t it been unhelpful for celebrities to voice their opinions on social and political issues?” while others had negative reactions, suggesting, “Even if you don’t speak out, shouldn’t you refrain from posting everyday content?”
Meanwhile, some publicly criticized Lim Young-woong's remarks, fueling the controversy. Cultural critic Kim Gap-soo pointed out on a YouTube channel, “The response from the music industry is so weak that it’s sad. The voice is extremely faint.” He further stated, “If one lacks basic civic awareness and adopts a passive attitude by avoiding responsibility, even if they cannot act or speak out, they should not be considered qualified as a Korean who has struggled to create the current history of Korea.”
Food columnist Hwang Kyo-ik remarked, “Saying that only politicians can voice political opinions can sound like an insult to citizens who come out to express their political will in the cold.”
A music industry insider commented, “Whether Lim Young-woong addresses this situation or not is not important. It would rather create uncomfortable moments in a good concert atmosphere,” adding, “As a singer, focusing on music and performance should be a priority. Speaking out and clarifying is ultimately a matter of freedom.”
Regarding this, Lim Young-woong and his agency have not made any significant statements. There were also questions about whether the message was actually sent by Lim Young-woong. Ultimately, he clarified his position in a public setting after 20 days, bringing the controversy to an end.
This concert series will run from the 27th to the 29th, and again from January 2nd to 4th, totaling six performances.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
