Travel creator and broadcaster KwakTube (Kwak Jun-bin) has recently stirred controversy by defending actress Lee Na-eun, former member of the group APRIL, which has led to a series of public outcries against him. Following his remarks, he switched the video featuring Lee Na-eun's appearance to private and issued an apology, yet the backlash persists, with calls for reconsideration of his participation in an upcoming talk concert.
KwakTube found himself in hot water after supporting Lee Na-eun amidst accusations of bullying and school violence. On October 16, he released a travel vlog featuring the two discussing their experiences, during which his comments raised eyebrows. In his apology, he acknowledged misunderstandings regarding his previous actions—stating he had blocked Lee due to the surrounding bullying allegations but later unblocked her upon realizing the situation was more complex.
User reactions have varied, with some accusing KwakTube of enabling Lee Na-eun's "image laundering" and "vicarious forgiveness." In response to the mounting controversy, he quickly turned the video private and apologized for his insensitivity, declaring he would be more mindful in future content creation. However, many online critics labeled his apology as insincere and lacking depth.
The Ministry of Education took further action by making KwakTube's participation in the "2024 School Violence Prevention Campaign" public service announcement video private just days after its release due to the ongoing backlash. This announcement featuring KwakTube aimed to raise awareness about recognizing and reporting school violence but was swiftly removed from public view in light of the turmoil surrounding his latest travel vlog with Lee Na-eun.
As the drama continues to unfold, a concerned netizen has even petitioned for KwakTube's appearance at the upcoming "2024 Busan International Travel Fair" to be reconsidered, claiming it inappropriate for a figure embroiled in controversy to engage with the public. With the situation escalating, the spotlight remains on whether KwakTube will provide additional clarification regarding his recent actions.
