‘Le Seraphim sexual harassment’ Hwang Wi-jin apologizes for “misunderstanding” in response to strong criticism

Taiwanese singer and actor Hwang Yu-jin is receiving strong criticism amid controversy over sexual harassment of girl group Le Seraphim.

Le Seraphim appeared on China's Chuseok special program 'Red and White Arts Awards' broadcast on the 27th (local time), participated as a guest and performed in the finale. The 'Red and White Arts Award' featured Huang Wei-jin, Chen Ming-ju, Wu Gang, Sha Sha, and He Bu-kai.

The 'Red and White Arts Awards' held a food tasting event before the performance, and Le Seraphim sampled sweet potato balls on bamboo skewers. Hwang Wi-jin, who saw this, made a slip of the tongue that seemed to have sexual intent, and Sasha, who heard this, pointed out, "You made a slip of the tongue." In response, Hwang Wi-jin explained, “I just wanted to eat the same meal as them, I had no other intentions.”

However, controversy arose after many fans and netizens strongly criticized Hwang Wi-jin's sexually harassing remarks. Accordingly, on the 28th, Hwang Wi-jin apologized on her SNS, saying, "Part of the broadcast was to allow the members to eat delicious food one by one. I wanted to react instinctively. I did not want to make the eating process awkward." He repeatedly emphasized, "I said something that could have been misunderstood by everyone. What I wanted to say in my heart was, 'I'm happy to be able to share delicious food with my favorite idol.'"

Despite Hwang Wi-jin's apology, criticism toward him continues. Hwang Wi-jin is a member of the group SpeXial and is both a singer and an actor.

Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr