[Exclusive]'Shooting at Shim Soo-bong' — Kim Da-hyun Regains Composure, Proceeds with Scheduled Chuseok Event 'Trip to Goseong Expo'

*This content was translated by AI.

While veteran singer Shim Soo-bong (71) has apologized for publicly criticizing his junior artist Kim Da-hyun (17), Kim Da-hyun will proceed with her scheduled upcoming engagements.

According to StarNews' verification on the 22nd, Kim Da-hyun is set to perform as planned at the '2026 Gyeongnam Goseong Dinosaur World Expo' stage in Goseong, Gyeongsangnam-do, on the 26th during the Chuseok holiday.

Earlier, on the 20th, Shim Soo-bong sparked controversy with inappropriate remarks directed at Kim Da-hyun during the 'Jinan Highland Trot Festival' held in the northern area of Misan Mountain, Jinan County, Jeollabuk-do. Referring to Kim Da-hyun, who was scheduled immediately before his own performance, he used dismissive terms such as "that woman," "young lady," and "player."

Shim Soo-bong harshly criticized Kim Da-hyun, stating, "You made my head spin. Singing is not something to be treated so lightly." He added, "One must experience life's hardships and struggles; music that comforts those who come to your event is not easy."

As the controversy over his derogatory comments intensified, Shim Soo-bong issued an official statement on the 21st: "On the 20th, I made a genuine slip of the tongue on a local trot festival stage watched by many. It is true that I had long-standing concerns about pop music, and on the day of the event, I was under significant stress due to venue noise." He continued, "However, at a trot festival where everyone should be smiling and enjoying themselves, I uttered words that were inappropriate and beyond common sense at an unsuitable moment. Even with ten mouths, I have no excuse," bowing his head in apology.

He further stated, "Above all, I did not know exactly who the preceding singer was, and I absolutely did not intend to embarrass a specific individual." He concluded, "Nevertheless, as an elder, it is clear that I made a mistake by saying something that hurt my junior artist's feelings," offering his apology.

On the same day, Kim Da-hyun shared on her Instagram: "I spoke directly with Teacher Shim Soo-bong. He personally apologized to me, offered encouragement, and gave warm comfort." She added, "Fans must have been upset and worried about this incident. I will take good care of my emotions, so please do not worry. Let's meet again with our bright smiles. Thank you."

Kim Da-hyun's father, award-winning educator Kim Bong-gon, told StarNews over the phone: "As a parent, I am deeply upset and disappointed." He continued, "After finishing her event, Da-hyun was monitoring her own performance when she discovered those remarks. She held back tears but eventually burst into tears. It seems to have caused her pain. The emotional distress appears significant."

He further remarked, "A festival stage is not a competition. It was an occasion where artists and audiences stood on equal footing to bring joy. Had it been a competition, I would have humbly accepted any critical feedback. However, the sudden and unexpected nature of those remarks came as a shock." He added, "Teacher Shim Soo-bong has long been someone Da-hyun admires. She even performed alongside him at concerts, playing the piano while singing."

Kim Bong-gon stated, "As parents, we naturally believe our children are doing well. However, we also recognize that others may perceive things differently." He concluded, "Unlike Teacher Shim Soo-bong, Da-hyun tends to sing bright songs appropriate for her teenage years. While there are lessons to be learned from this, it seems the remarks made on a public occasion were not suitable."

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*This content was translated by AI.