Actor Lee Yi-kyung Faces Renewed Controversy Amidst Variety Show Exits

Reporter Jung Se-yoon from TenAsia delves into intriguing broadcasting issues with a unique perspective, making them easy to read.

---

Actor Lee Yi-kyung finds himself embroiled in controversy once again. Individual A, who previously exposed Lee's private life, has reversed their stance and announced further revelations. As the seemingly resolved scandal reignites, attention is focused on Lee's future moves, especially after his recent exits from variety shows.

On the 4th, A posted on social media, "I'm considering releasing proof shots. It's unfair to end it like this. The AI explanation is not true." This statement came just a day after Lee Yi-kyung's agency, Sangyoung ENT, announced they had filed a defamation lawsuit against the person spreading the rumors.

The controversy began on the 20th of last month when a post titled 'Revealing the True Face of Lee Yi-kyung' appeared on an online community. The author, A, claimed to have exchanged messages with Lee, alleging that he requested inappropriate photos. The post included explicit conversations, causing a stir.

Lee Yi-kyung's side responded promptly. Sangyoung ENT stated on their official social media, "We are preparing legal action against the spread of false information and malicious rumors," and added, "We will take all necessary measures after assessing the direct and indirect damages."

The following day, on the 21st, A apologized on social media, saying, "I didn't expect a post that started as a joke to gain so much attention. As I continued writing and creating AI photos, I began to believe it myself. What started as a fan's affection turned into emotional involvement, and I spread it like a malicious rumor. I'm truly sorry to actor Lee Yi-kyung."

Though the issue seemed to be resolved, A's reversal, stating "It's unfair to end it like this," has reignited the controversy. Lee Yi-kyung's side has yet to release a new statement.

Recently, Lee Yi-kyung has stepped down from several variety shows. On the 4th, he ended his nearly three-year stint on MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo.' His agency explained, "Due to filming schedules for two projects, we decided to exit after discussions with MBC." Some speculate that the decision was influenced by the personal life controversy.

His anticipated role as a new MC on KBS2's 'The Return of Superman' also fell through. On the 11th, the show announced a new lineup with MCs Kim Jong-min and Lala. Although Lee Yi-kyung was initially considered, the production team did not explain the change. Viewers speculated that the family-oriented nature of the show, featuring young children, made Lee's involvement uncomfortable.

Lee Yi-kyung continues to appear on some variety shows like SBS PLUS, ENA's 'I Am Solo,' and E Channel's 'Brave Detectives.' He is also set to film the Vietnamese movie 'I Am Here' and the Japanese TBS Friday drama 'Dream Stage.'

While he hasn't completely halted his activities, the series of exits has dealt a significant blow to Lee Yi-kyung. A broadcasting insider commented, "The industry is highly sensitive to public perception. Once embroiled in controversy, it's challenging to return until the issue is fully resolved, even if the allegations are unfounded."

Jung Se-yoon, TenAsia Reporter yoon@tenasia.co.kr