MBC Producer Faces Backlash from Colleagues Over 'Ilbe' Accusation Against Idol

Even colleagues at his own company have criticized an MBC Gyeongnam producer, identified as Mr. Kim, for suggesting that the use of the phrase "museobno" (it's scary) by Woni, a member of the idol group RESCENE, was reminiscent of the far-right online community Ilbe.

The MBC 3rd Labor Union demanded on July 7, "Instead of closing his social media account as a public figure, Producer Kim should clarify his position and apologize immediately."

The union further emphasized, "He should face disciplinary action regarding the damage caused to MBC Gyeongnam."

The union also described him, stating, "Producer Kim established himself as a star documentary producer through the success of the documentary 'Adult Kim Jang-ha' at MBC Gyeongnam and has become a prominent figure among left-leaning individuals in MBC and the broadcasting industry."

Previously, Woni said, "Museobno, even the lighting is scary," in a video visiting the home of Japanese member Minami, which was recently uploaded to her YouTube channel.

In response, Producer Kim criticized her on his social media, saying, "I was very upset to see a female idol and a producer exchanging 'no-no' comfortably," adding, "The choice made when realizing that it is an expression rooted in hate speech is a matter of attitude."

Following these remarks, as netizens continued to criticize him for "labeling a regional dialect as Ilbe," Producer Kim closed his social media account.

On a social media account known to be operated by Producer Kim, a post appeared on July 3 stating, "I cannot close the gates of hell that I have opened," and "I have confirmed once again that social media is not a suitable medium for debate."

The controversy grew further as it became a topic of discussion among politicians.

Cho Kuk, former leader of the Rebuilding Korea Party, claimed, "Ilbe users mechanically attach 'no' to the end of standard Korean sentences." Meanwhile, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the New Reform Party, criticized this, saying, "Former Representative Cho has suddenly started singing the 'Jukchang-ga' (Bamboo Spear Song) against the Gyeongsang-do dialect."

Reported by Kim Jiuk | Video by Kim Hye-ju | Graphics by Yang Hye-min | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.