Kim Jung-hyun Bows During '2024 KBS Drama Awards' Acceptance Speech

Actor Kim Jung-hyun issued a public apology for a six-year-old controversy during his acceptance speech at the '2024 KBS Drama Awards' on December 31. While delivering his speech at the ceremony held at KBS Hall in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Kim stated, “I have much to reflect on. It has weighed heavily on my heart for years. I wanted to sincerely apologize,” bowing his head.

The awards ceremony was recorded instead of being broadcast live due to the tragic Jeju Air plane crash at Muan Airport. Kim’s remarks became known through accounts shared by attendees on online communities and social media.

The apology is believed to address the 2018 controversy during the press conference for the MBC drama Time. At the time, Kim faced backlash for refusing to link arms with co-star Seohyun and maintaining an expressionless demeanor, which many deemed inappropriate. He later exited the drama midway, citing health issues, leaving Seohyun to complete the project alone.

In 2021, his relationship with actress Seo Yea-ji came under scrutiny amid allegations that she had manipulated him during the Time production. Reports claimed she had instructed him to avoid physical contact with co-stars and demanded changes to romantic scenes. Both parties denied the allegations, but Kim released a handwritten apology that year, expressing deep regret over his behavior during the press conference and his departure from the drama.

The 2024 KBS Drama Awards marked the first time in six years that Kim Jung-hyun and Seohyun appeared at the same event. Kim starred in the hit KBS drama Iron Family, while Seohyun served as the ceremony’s MC. Though Kim did not explicitly name Seohyun in his apology, the gesture held significance, given that it was made in her presence. This was also the first time he had apologized publicly at an official event, drawing considerable attention.

As the ceremony was pre-recorded, there is speculation about whether Kim’s apology will be included in the final broadcast, heightening interest in the program’s airing.