Translator Hwang Seok-hee's Past Sexual Offenses Resurface Amid Legal Proceedings

Translator Hwang Seok-hee's past sexual offenses have come under scrutiny as his wife's plea for leniency reportedly influenced the court's decision. Hwang, who married fellow dubbing translator Seo Seung-hee in 2021 and welcomed a daughter in 2019, addressed the allegations on his social media on the 30th.

Hwang stated, "We are currently reviewing the related matters with our lawyer," adding, "If there are inaccuracies, unverified information, or expressions beyond legal judgment in the reports, we will consider corrections and responses."

Earlier, a media outlet reported that Hwang committed three sexual offenses between 2005 and 2014. According to the report, in 2005, he assaulted and molested women in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, repeating similar offenses at 30-minute intervals. He was charged with forcible molestation causing injury and night-time joint assault, receiving a sentence of 1 year and 6 months in prison, suspended for 2 years.

In 2014, while conducting video translation lectures at a cultural center, Hwang was tried for quasi-rape and illegal filming of a student. He was sentenced to 2 years in prison, suspended for 4 years, along with 80 hours of sexual violence treatment lectures and 80 hours of community service. The court reportedly considered his previous offenses but granted a suspended sentence due to his remorse and family circumstances. Notably, his wife's continuous pleas for leniency were said to have influenced the sentencing.

Hwang has been known as a translator who actively communicates with the public, building a friendly image. His portrayal as a 'devoted husband' and 'daughter's fool' has garnered favor among the MZ generation. He has translated numerous works, including 'Warm Bodies,' 'Deadpool,' 'Call Me by Your Name,' 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' and 'Project Hail Mary,' maintaining a prolific career.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr