Comedian Lee Su-ji has ultimately decided to take legal action as malicious comments continued to pour in despite her awareness of criticisms surrounding her parody skit of public officials and her subsequent handwritten apology.

On the 8th, CP Entertainment, Lee's agency, stated, "We have confirmed that malicious slander, insults, personal attacks, the spread of false information, and defamatory posts and comments targeting Lee Su-ji are continuously being posted and spread across online communities and social media." The agency added, "As this is a serious matter that infringes upon the artist's reputation and rights, we are closely monitoring all related issues and responding thoroughly."

The agency emphasized, "We plan to take all necessary legal actions, including civil and criminal measures, in cooperation with our legal representative against those who write, spread, or distribute malicious posts or comments," and warned, "To protect our artist, we will respond strictly with a zero-tolerance policy, without leniency or settlements."

Previously, a satirical video titled "Public Official Kim Ji-young's Protection of Her Iron Rice Bowl" was uploaded on July 14 to "Hot Issueji," the YouTube channel run by Lee. The video, which satirized the realities of public servants such as malicious civil complaints, excessive workloads, and low salaries, included a scene where a civil petitioner shouts, "Re-election!" This sparked criticism, with some suggesting that the scene portrayed protesters demanding a re-election in connection with the ballot paper shortage incident during the local elections as malicious petitioners.

As the controversy grew, the production team issued an explanation the following day, stating, "We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable and disappointed by the video. The scene pointed out by many was not intended to convey a specific issue or political stance."

Lee Su-ji also issued a handwritten apology on August 1 of last month, 18 days after the controversy arose, stating, "I sincerely bow my head and apologize to everyone who felt discomfort and disappointment. The fact that I was unable to respond quickly and apologize to those whose feelings were hurt is also my fault and responsibility with no room for excuse." She added that she takes heavily to heart the fact that, regardless of her intention to create laughter, her actions ultimately caused hurt and discomfort to someone.

Photo by Baek Seung-chul

(SBS Star News, reported by Kang Kyung-yoon)