[Lily's Take] Jang Hee-jin Apologizes for her Comment About Lee Bo-young

Actress Jang Hee-jin apologized for her comment about a fellow actress Lee Bo-young.

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On July 19^th, 2017, Jang Hee-jin appeared on a popular talk show, "Radio Star", and shared a story of her travels with actress Lee Bo-young.

The two actresses became friends after their work on "My Daughter Seo-yeong". Because of the drama, a friendship was formed and they became close. They often go on road trips together. When Jang Hee-jin shared couple stories and mishaps from a certain trip, she shared a story of the two going to a seafood restaurant.

She said, "It's always fun to go to a restaurant with Lee Bo-young. We almost always get complementary treats. One day, we went to the Geoje Island during the gizzard shad season. I told Lee Bo-young I wanted to eat the gizzard shad and she asked the owner if they could give some complimentary treat. At first, the owner told us off saying that those fish are too expensive to be a complementary treat. However, towards the end of our meal, the owner approached us and asked if we were in "My Daughter Seo-yeong". When we said yes, she gave us the gizzard shad for free saying that she didn't recognize us at first".

After this episode was aired, actress Lee Bo-young was accused of being a moocher. In news posted online about Lee Bo-young, including her receiving the Top Excellence Award and news about her newest drama, "Mother - Drama", there are unkind comments about the gizzard shad incident. Because of this story, Lee Bo-young's image took a hit. Many netizens now comment that she is a selfish person who uses her fame to acquire free things.

Regarding this incident, Lee Bo-young's agency FlyUp Entertainment revealed the official statement, "A while ago, certain actress close to actress Lee Bo-young appeared on a talk show and unintentionally shared a bluffed story in order to entertain. This story, even though it was not 100% real, was received as a real story and spread like a wild fire. To stop the rumor from spreading further, we are going to file a lawsuit against people who disseminate false facts.

Actress Jang Hee-jin's agency Lucky Company released an official apology, which reads, "We apologize for causing such trouble. Without an ill intention, a story shared in a talk show caused much concern for many people. I deeply regret this action and will try to be an actress who is cautious with both words and actions in the future".

The netizens are divided 50/50 in their reactions to the news. Some defend Jang Hee-jin's words as an honest mistake and that Lee Bo-young's side is going too far. On the other side, some defend Lee Bo-young and comment that Jang Hee-jin was too careless worry that Lee Bo-young's image as a top actress can't be easily restored easily with a simple apology.

By: Lily Lee