TV presenter Lee Hwi Jae, 44, has issued an official apology to actress Lee Ji Eun (IU), Sung Dong-Il and Jo Jung Suk. He apologized for the insensitive and inappropriate comments he made them during the recent 2016 SBS Drama Awards.
The annual SBS Drama Awards took place on Dec. 31, 2016, at the SBS Prism Tower in Sangam-Dong, Seoul, South Korea. It was co-hosted by Hwi Jae along with Kpop group Girls' Day member Minah and actor Jang Keun Suk.
During the awarding ceremony, Hwi Jae voiced out his suspicion towards Lee Joon-Gi and Ji Eun's real relationship despite knowing the latter's romantic relationship with singer-songwriter Chang Kiha. Joon-Gi and Ji-Eun played an on-screen couple in the recent historical drama "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo."
Hwi Jae has also been criticized for his impolite remarks towards Sung. The former said he does not know what to call to the "Reply 1988" actor in view of his attire. The latter sported a casual coat over his suit.
"I can't tell if you're a PD [producing-director] or an actor," Soompi quoted Hwi Jae as saying on stage. "You're an actor, right?"
Despite Sung's tepid response, Hwi Jae kept on making similar remarks and even asked if the former came from the set or he went straight to the event from home. He carried on the joke when Sung's walked up on stage to receive the Special Acting Award, Actor in a Fantasy, Drama for the series "The Legend of the Blue Sea."
"Oh, so he was wearing a coat because he's cold," Hwi Jae said. Co-host Minah then tried to downplay his remarks, stressing that the veteran actor still looked very sharp. However, that did not stop Hwi Jae and continued with his remarks: "Sung Dong Il, the director and actor. Oh, you were wearing [a suit] under [your coat]!"
Hwi Jae also prompted the "Jealousy Incarnate" actor to mention his girlfriend Gummy while delivering his acceptance speech for the Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Romantic Comedy Drama. Following the backlash, the comedian took to his SNS to offer his public apology," according to Korean newsoutlet TV Report.
"To IU, Jo Jung Suk, and any actors or viewers who may have felt discomfort at what I said, I sincerely apologize," Hwi Jae wrote. "I apologize for everything that happened as a result of my own ambition [to do better]. In the future, I promise to be careful and work harder toward solid hosting."
Check out the 2016 SBS Drama Awards here: