Song Hye-kyo’s 'Powerful Words' When She Rejected an Ad Offer from War Criminal Company 9 Years Ago Resurfaces

South Korean actress Song Hye-kyo’s principled rejection of an advertisement offer from a Japanese war criminal company has resurfaced in public discourse.

Professor Seo Kyung-duk shared a heartfelt Facebook post on the 9th, accompanied by a photo of himself with Song.

"Many followers sent me messages last night saying a photo of me with Hye-kyo appeared on 'You Quiz on the Block'," Seo wrote, reminiscing about their past collaboration. He recalled introducing Okmae Mine—a site of forced labor during Japan's colonial rule—to the hosts of the show five years ago. "It’s a memory that feels so vivid. For 14 years, I’ve been fortunate to work with Hye-kyo on meaningful projects," he added.

Together, the duo has donated Korean-language guides to renowned institutions such as New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, and Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum (ROM).

Additionally, they have contributed Korean guidebooks, signboards, and relief sculptures of independence activists to 37 sites linked to Korea’s independence movement worldwide. Seo highlighted Song’s authenticity and unwavering dedication as her greatest strengths, praising her character.

He also revisited a notable moment in 2016 when Song rejected an ad offer from Mitsubishi Motors for its Chinese market, citing the company’s history as a war criminal enterprise.

“At the time, she told me, ‘Professor, we’ve been working together on projects honoring Korea’s independence movement. This was an obvious decision for me.’ Her words still resonate with me,” Seo recalled.

Song reportedly refused the offer, stating, “I cannot endorse a company involved in lawsuits over forced labor of Koreans during World War II.” Seo commended her commitment to Korean culture and history. "She’s an extraordinary actress who understands how to cherish and protect our heritage," he remarked.