Translator Hwang Seok-hee's Deleted Instagram Post Sparks Controversy Amidst Crime Allegations

Hwang Seok-hee's Instagram post, which was uploaded two days ago and then deleted, is drawing attention.

On the 30th, Hwang Seok-hee shared a photo of a book cover titled 'Not Ready Yet' along with the caption, "I support all children starting anew." The book is known to be written by author Gaioiler and translated by Hwang Seok-hee.

Another photo included a 'Translator's Note.' He wrote, "What should I say to a child about to embark on a new beginning? As a father of a daughter starting elementary school this year, I had many concerns. This book sends a big cheer to parents like that and to children who hold vague anxieties. Perfect preparation might be an illusion from the start. It's much more important to cheer on the child to take those clumsy steps with courage. I support the new beginnings of all children in the world!" The post was reportedly uploaded two days before the controversy arose and has since been deleted.

Netizens who saw the post reacted critically, saying, "If the crimes are true, it's really hypocritical," "Shameless," "Hard to believe he has a daughter," and "If you have a criminal record, you shouldn't think about appearing on TV."

Earlier that day, a media outlet reported that Hwang Seok-hee had committed three sexual offenses. According to the report, he was charged in 2005 for molesting and assaulting a woman on the street and twice in 2014 for sexual violence against a student. He was tried for charges including indecent assault causing injury and quasi-rape, but received suspended sentences.

In response, Hwang Seok-hee stated on his social media the same day, "I am currently reviewing the related matters with my lawyer. If there are parts of the report that are different from the facts, unverified, or beyond the scope of legal judgment, I will consider corrections and responses."

Born in 1979, Hwang Seok-hee is a translator who has translated over 600 films, including 'Warm Bodies,' 'Carol,' 'Deadpool,' 'Spotlight,' and 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' He married in 2012 and has a daughter.

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