Embattled Korean actor Kim Jung-hyun has apologized to co-star Seohyun, member of Girls’ Generation, and other people behind the 2018 drama “Time” for disappointing and hurting them.
The 31-year-old star is facing severe criticisms for his rude behavior towards Seohyun at the press conference for “Time” in July 2018 and his attitude during filming in which he refused to film “skinship” and romantic scenes with Seohyun despite that these were in the script.
At the press conference, Seohyun tried to link her arm with his for the media but he refused. A report by Korean TV channel SBS stated that Seohyun cried a lot on the set, mainly because of him. One time, it said, they touched hands and when the scene was over, he wiped his hand with tissue and when Seohyun saw it, she burst into tears.
It said he was very sensitive to filming romantic scenes with Seohyun and he asked that it be minimized. This led to the script being revised several times.
A report by Korean news outlet Dispatch stated that actress Seo Ye-ji prevented him from filming “skinship” and romantic scenes with Seohyun.
“The drama ‘Time’ was a work that gave me my first lead role as an actor so it had a special meaning to me as well. However, I caused great disappointment and hurt to the director, writer, fellow actors and staff. I’m sorry,” he said.
He added, “The memories of the 'Time' production presentation remain like shards. My appearance at that time was unacceptable even to me. I regret it that I wish I could bring back time.”
“I've brought onto myself to do something unpleasant because of personal matters. I could not fulfill my responsibilities as a protagonist and actor. I apologize without any excuse,” said Kim.
According to him, “In the drama 'Time,' my behavior at the production presentation and the whole process of dropping out were wrong. I sincerely apologize to actress Seohyun, who was hurt by this, and to all the people who suffered with it at the time.”
He said he will “visit the people in charge of 'Time' and all the people who have been hurt by me and apologize to them. Even if it takes a long time, I will find the director, writer, actors and staff and ask for forgiveness.”
“I apologize morally to my agency, O& Entertainment, and for the unpleasant mention of Culture Depot. Also, I sincerely apologize to fans who believed in me and always supported me,” he said.
He added, “I bow my head and ask for forgiveness to all those who have been discomforted by me. While I was writing this, I had time to reflect on my mistakes and wrongdoings. If I am given the chance, I will not take anything for granted, and I will always try to be a healthy actor who reflects and manages himself. I am sorry.”