Broadcaster Kim Shin-young has personally apologized after being criticized for her comments about the virtual idol group Playb.

On the opening of MBC FM4U‘s ‘Noon Song of Hope, This is Kim Shin-young’ on the 17th, Kim Shin-young began by saying, “There were many opinions that what I said about the virtual idol group Playb was not fair and objective.”

She said, “I humbly accept all opinions and I sincerely apologize to the artists and our fans who were hurt.”Through this incident, I once again felt the weight of every word I say and my responsibility as a DJ. I will be more careful in the future.”

Kim Shin-young said, “(Playb) worked hard, but it seems right to say (my comments) were rude.”She added, “I will learn from and cheer on Playb, who has walked their own path better than anyone else.”

Finally, he said, “I thought about posting (the apology) on SNS, but I felt like I could no longer be ashamed of what I said on the radio, so I wanted to express my apology once again through my voice,” apologizing once again.

On the 16th, Kim Shin-young hosted ‘Noon Hope Song’ and talked with rapper Hangzoo about Playbe. When Kim Shin-young mentioned, “It’s been two years since Playbe debuted,” Hangzoo asked, “Have you adapted (to being a virtual idol)?” Kim Shin-young replied, “We haven‘t adapted,” and mentioned a recent episode where Playbe appeared on a radio show hosted by Ko Young-bae, saying, “I was so shocked when Ko Young-bae took a picture with the members of Playbe. I was really surprised. How did he record it? How did he broadcast it? That’s what I thought.”

Hangzoo responded, “We can‘t meet. I’m close with the virtual group. First of all, I can‘t meet them. Because we live in different worlds. I can only communicate with them through social media (SNS). The photos are photoshopped,” he explained, and Kim Shin Young was surprised again, saying, “This is crazy. Did you take those pictures by yourself?”

Kim Shin Young then said, “To be honest, you can’t appear on our broadcast. I think I‘ll really feel dizzy. I can’t see you, so where are you looking?” and added, “But I have to accept this culture, but it‘s still (difficult for me).”

However, Kim Shin Young’s remarks brought about a huge backlash. The “Noon Hope Song” story and request bulletin board was flooded with posts asking her to select Playbe songs, and the official SNS was also flooded with criticism and demands for Kim Shin Young to step down as a DJ. The situation is the same on Kim Shin Young‘s personal SNS. Accordingly, he has taken down all of his current posts.

Meanwhile, Playbe is a five-member virtual idol group that debuted in March 2023 and is active with a worldview of creating a new world to achieve their dreams.

Reporter Lee Seul-bi, Donga.com misty82@donga.com

This article is automatically translated using Google AI. If you notice any inaccuracies, please let us know at allkstar@donga.com.