W Korea Issues Apology Following Backlash Over Breast Cancer Charity Event

W Korea, a prominent fashion magazine, has issued an apology just four days after hosting a breast cancer charity event that drew criticism for its lavish nature. The event, held under the guise of a 'Breast Cancer Campaign,' was criticized for being more of a celebrity party than a charitable cause.

On October 19, W Korea posted an apology on its official website in the form of a pop-up message. The statement read, "The event on the 15th was criticized for not aligning with the campaign's purpose in terms of its structure and execution. We take this criticism seriously."

The magazine further stated, "We deeply apologize for not considering the perspectives of breast cancer patients and their families, causing discomfort and distress. We regret that many who participated with good intentions experienced inconvenience due to the controversy."

W Korea added, "We are reflecting on our shortcomings, considering the feelings of all those who were disappointed by this event. We will continue to address the areas of concern based on the various criticisms and feedback."

The event, titled the '20th W Korea Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign Charity Event,' took place on October 15 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul. It was attended by numerous celebrities, including actors Lee Young-ae, Ha Jung-woo, Lee Min-ho, Ko Hyun-jung, Lim Soo-jung, Jung Ryeo-won, Lee Chae-min, Jung Hae-in, Byeon Woo-seok, Dex, and Park Eun-bin. Idol groups such as IVE, aespa, BTS members j-hope, V, and RM, ALLDAY PROJECT, ILLIT, and KiiiKiii were also present.

However, the event faced public backlash as attendees were seen enjoying drinks and partying rather than engaging with the voices of breast cancer patients or survivors. Criticism also arose over the presence of underage members from groups like ILLIT and KiiiKiii, the potentially derogatory lyrics of Jay Park's song 'Mommae,' and the lack of any breast cancer-related messages from the invited celebrities.

Many netizens expressed disappointment, suggesting that the event could have effectively conveyed its core message by including interviews or videos explaining the importance of breast cancer screening. They also recommended incorporating time to listen to survivors' stories or inviting celebrities who have made donations related to breast cancer.

W Korea's official statement reads:

W Korea's 'Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign: Love Your W' began in 2006 and has worked for 20 years to promote the importance of early breast cancer detection. However, the event on October 15 was criticized for not aligning with the campaign's purpose, and we take this seriously.

We deeply apologize for not considering the perspectives of breast cancer patients and their families, causing discomfort and distress.

We regret that many who participated with good intentions experienced inconvenience due to the controversy.

We are reflecting on our shortcomings, considering the feelings of all those who were disappointed by this event.

Over the years, the core of this campaign has been to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and support the Korean Breast Health Foundation's efforts to provide surgical treatment for low-income patients. We will continue to address the areas of concern based on the various criticisms and feedback. We will thoroughly review the entire process of planning and executing events in the future.

Thank you.

W Korea

Reported by Tae Yuna, Ten Asia youyou@tenasia.co.kr