Internet broadcaster Lim A-ni has issued an apology following controversy over comparing a stabbing attack in Guwol-dong, Incheon, to a game character.
Early in the morning on October 14, Lim posted a notice titled "I am sorry" on her SOOP channel, stating, "During communication on my broadcast, I learned about an unfortunate incident, and while many people were watching the content, I compared the knife attack to a Zealot, causing a problem. I am sorry." She continued, "Regardless of my intentions, it is entirely my fault," and added, "I apologize once again to the victims and those around them involved in today's incident."
Previously, Lim sparked controversy during her broadcast by mentioning the Incheon stabbing attack, saying, "He tied knives to both arms, rode the escalator like a Zealot, and stabbed 20 people." A "Zealot" is a melee combat unit of the Protoss race in the real-time strategy game StarCraft, a character that attacks enemies with blades mounted on both arms. She was reportedly known to have responded to viewers who pointed out her remarks during the broadcast by telling them, "Just leave."
As the controversy grew, Lim admitted in her apology, "At first, I failed to realize the severity of the situation and my wrongdoing. The remarks I made here were also emotional and only made things worse." She added, "I am also sorry for apologizing in an inappropriate attitude and attire because I felt I needed to apologize before ending the broadcast in a disjointed and unorganized manner."
Lim stated, "I deeply reflect on my rashness today, and as a streamer, I realize the weight of a single word and will take responsibility," adding, "Moving forward, I will think much more deeply when speaking about everything." She also conveyed, "I apologize to the fans and viewers whom I disappointed. I am sorry for causing a controversy late at night."
Earlier, at around 1:40 p.m. on October 13, a 59-year-old man surnamed A attacked citizens with weapons fixed to both hands at a commercial complex in Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, Incheon. According to the Incheon Fire Headquarters, eight people were injured and transported to hospitals in the incident, among whom a woman in her 20s underwent surgery in a state of cardiac arrest.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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