TEO Addresses Editing Decisions Amidst Kim Soo-hyun Controversy on 'Good Day'

The production company TEO for MBC's 'Good Day' has clarified its stance on editing related to actor Kim Soo-hyun's scenes.

On the 17th, TEO released a statement via their YouTube channel, expressing, "We apologize for causing concern to those who watch 'Good Day'." They continued, "The production team is aware of the seriousness of the controversy surrounding the cast and is prioritizing viewer feedback as we continue production."

The production team explained that 'Good Day' is pre-produced at least 1-2 weeks before the broadcast due to the need for translation for international airing and streaming. Specifically, the episode aired on the 16th was re-edited to remove Kim Soo-hyun's scenes from the 'Good Day Assembly' after discussions with MBC and global OTT platforms, resulting in a version that was about 10 minutes shorter than originally planned, with some details inevitably lacking.

Regarding the recording session on the 13th, they stated, "The recording of 'Good Day' was delayed, and we were waiting for an official statement from Kim Soo-hyun's agency." However, since the agency planned to release a statement only after March 13th, and securing the cast's schedule afterward was challenging, they proceeded with the recording after careful consideration. They added, "We recorded with the possibility of deleting the actor's parts in mind and ensured minimal overlap with other cast members during recording and sketch filming," apologizing for any distress caused to viewers.

They further stated, "If the controversy surrounding the cast continues, it could damage the purpose of 'Good Day', which started with good intentions, the sincerity of the participating cast, and the empathy and support of the viewers." They also mentioned that the 'Good Day Assembly' content, filmed on February 18th, will be broadcast over episodes 6-7, but they have decided to edit out Kim Soo-hyun's appearances as much as possible. Additionally, "The individual recording scenes of the actor on the 13th will not be aired," and they committed to doing their best in the remaining production.

Previously, Kim Soo-hyun faced a blow to his image due to allegations of a romantic relationship with a minor. The YouTube channel Garosero Research Institute claimed on the 10th that Kim Soo-hyun had been in a relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron for six years, starting when she was 15. They also alleged that his agency colluded with a YouTuber to harass Kim Sae-ron and mishandled a DUI incident.

The channel presented photos of Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyun from their alleged dating period as evidence, asserting them as 'facts'. In response, Gold Medalist, Kim Soo-hyun's agency, issued an official statement on the 14th, stating, "Kim Soo-hyun and the deceased were in a relationship when they were both adults, and the debt-related allegations are also false." They expressed strong regret, questioning, "Who benefits from disclosing personal life without the consent of those involved?"

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