Actress Lee Ji-ah Breaks Silence on Family Controversy After 20 Years

Actress Lee Ji-ah, who had been labeled as a 'descendant of pro-Japanese collaborators,' has finally addressed the issue in a public statement, shedding this label after 20 years in the industry. Her statement, which clarifies misunderstandings while offering a sincere apology and future intentions, has been met with public support.

According to a report on the 19th, Lee Ji-ah's father is involved in a legal dispute with his siblings over land owned by her grandfather, who was classified as a pro-Japanese collaborator. Some media outlets also reported that her father was sentenced to prison for forgery and fraud.

On the 21st, through her agency, Lee Ji-ah revealed her family history for the first time since her debut, stating, "I became independent at 18 and have not received any financial support from my parents. I have been estranged from them for over 10 years due to a complicated family history."

She explained, "I was unaware of my grandfather's pro-Japanese activities until I first encountered the information in a 2011 article. Since then, I have visited the Institute for Research in Collaborationist Activities multiple times to verify the facts and study related materials." She added, "I deeply recognize the historical wrongdoings of my grandfather and sincerely apologize as a descendant. I will continue to face historical truths with humility and live with a sense of responsibility."

Lee Ji-ah's secret marriage to Seo Taiji and subsequent divorce, along with a lawsuit for alimony and property division, was revealed in 2011, causing a stir. It was reported that she was 16 at the time of marriage. She also briefly dated actor Jung Woo-sung publicly before breaking up. The label of being a 'descendant of pro-Japanese collaborators' further tarnished her image, making it difficult for her to be positively received.

However, after 20 years, Lee Ji-ah has spoken out about the pro-Japanese allegations. Her statement made it clear that she was not directly at fault. It not only clarified her past grievances but also expressed her commitment to doing her best moving forward. The public has responded positively, with comments like, "I couldn't fully appreciate her acting due to the pro-Japanese image, but now I can support her freely."

Throughout her career, Lee Ji-ah has refrained from expressing grievances or venting emotions when embroiled in controversies. This demeanor has played a significant role in building trust with the public. The industry is now watching to see if Lee Ji-ah can clear past misunderstandings and steer her career in a positive direction.

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