The production team of KBS-2TV's variety program Boss in the Mirror (often shortened in Korean as Sadang-gwi) has issued an official apology following controversy sparked by announcer Kim Jin-woong's recent comments.
Official Statement from the Production Team
On August 27, the show's producers stated, "We sincerely apologize for the concerns and discomfort caused by last week's broadcast. We will exercise greater caution throughout the production process to ensure such incidents do not occur again and will strive to create programming that is more responsible and considerate."
The Controversy
The issue began during the August 24 broadcast, when Kim Jin-woong remarked, "I can't live like senior Do Kyung-wan. It may be disrespectful to say this, but I can't live as someone's 'sub.'" His statement was criticized as inappropriate.
Singer Jang Yoon-jung, Do Kyung-wan's wife, responded via Instagram, writing, "If there is no personal closeness, words or actions that the other person cannot laugh at cannot be excused as jokes or pranks. In a family, there is no such thing as a 'sub.'"
Reactions and Apologies
Following the backlash, Kim Jin-woong apologized both privately and publicly. He admitted, "Because it felt like such a valuable opportunity, I became overly eager and failed to be cautious. As a result, I said something I should not have. I sincerely apologize."
Jang Yoon-jung acknowledged receiving his personal apology, stating, "If someone apologizes, I believe it is right to accept it. I won't say much more and simply wish him peace, happiness, and good fortune going forward."
Do Kyung-wan also addressed the matter, saying, "Our relationship may appear unbalanced to some, but my wife and I live by respecting and relying on each other."
Aftermath
KBS has since suspended the replay service of the episode in question in response to public criticism. The production team followed with an additional statement of apology, promising to approach future broadcasts with greater sensitivity.