Renowned YouTuber Takes a Stand: “In Korea, a 40-Year-Old Dating a 20-Year-Old is Common” Critique of Kim Soo-hyun

Exploring Korean Comedy’s Impact on Global Perceptions

On March 12, Eom Eun-hyang debuted a compelling video titled “The Characteristics of Korean Comedy That Are Causing a Stir Abroad.” In this engaging piece, a foreign student is quizzed about his ideal partner while holding a “K-Humor Book.”When asked, “What’s your ideal type?” he bluntly responds with, “A 20-year-old woman.” However, when pressed further, he adds a surprising twist: “Only when I’m 40.” This humor plays into the nuanced aspects of age and relationships, particularly in the context of Korean culture.

Cultural Critique Through Humor

The video culminates with Eom Eun-hyang’s remark, “Use this only in Korea, ” which appears to be a satirical jab at Kim Soo-hyun’s controversial public image, particularly regarding his choices amidst recent scandals. Audiences are alluded to a recent uproar involving Kim Soo-hyun and his purported six-year relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron, who, at just 15, was significantly younger than him.

Background on Kim Soo-hyun’s Remarks

The humor in Eom’s video is underscored by Kim Soo-hyun’s past comments from a May 2013 event promoting his film “Secretly, Greatly.” At that time, he shared a personal life plan intended for marriage at 36 but hinted at a change of heart, suggesting that perhaps marrying a 21-year-old at 41 was now on his mind.

Responses to Controversy and Backlash

In light of the disseminated rumors, Kim Soo-hyun’s management has categorically denied any romantic involvement with Kim Sae-ron. Following Kim Sae-ron’s posting of intimate photos with him last March, his agency labeled the dating rumors as “completely untrue, ” expressing uncertainty about her motivations. In rebuttal to her family’s assertions, the agency reiterated their position and threatened legal action against these claims.

The backlash within the fandom became evident on March 13, when Kim Soo-hyun’s fan café, Eucharist, opted to close its discussion boards while retaining only a temporary notice board. This café, boasting nearly 29, 000 members, has historically served as his official fan community.

As discussions around his personal life intensified, the café’s administrators clarified that the temporary privatization was a precautionary measure aimed at curbing potential cyberbullying among members, particularly concerning the accusations involving Kim’s relationship with a minor.

Global Reactions and Implications

The severity of the backlash is notable, especially among international fan communities. Platforms like Weibo have witnessed discontent, with some users declaring, “We never want to see him in China again, ” echoing disapproval of Kim Soo-hyun’s actions.

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