'Starbucks Check-in' Jung Min-chan: "I was reckless and insufficient... I deeply reflect" speaks out again [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Ballet dancer and musical actor Jung Min-chan issued a second apology regarding the controversy over historical awareness that erupted after his 'Starbucks check-in photo.'

On the 23rd, Jung Min-chan stated, "I sincerely apologize for causing discomfort and disappointment to many people with the post I recently uploaded."

Jung Min-chan added, "As I have been handling various activities such as performances and rehearsals alone, I posted the content without properly recognizing the current social atmosphere. Although I did not intend to convey any specific message, I ultimately caused pain to many people. I have only now deeply realized how reckless and insufficient I was."

Previously, on the 20th, Jung Min-chan confirmed that he visited a Starbucks store and drank a beverage recommended by an employee. However, with the ongoing Starbucks boycott movement, the post became problematic, and Jung Min-chan immediately apologized, saying, "I've been so busy living my life that I don't follow the news or trending issues well. Why are you all paying so much attention to me? I don't know what to do." He continued, "Not knowing is ignorance, and ignorance is wrong, so I am offering a simple apology. I will make sure to follow the news more diligently from now on."

Subsequently, on the 22nd, the production company of 'Diaghilev,' Showplay, announced, "Actor Jung Min-chan, who plays the role of 'Nijinsky,' has decided to withdraw from the performance after thorough discussions with the production company. We sincerely apologize to the audience for causing concern due to matters related to actor Jung Min-chan and for the discomfort and confusion caused by this sudden decision. Both the production company and the actor, along with the staff, will handle future matters with greater caution to prevent such incidents from recurring, and we will do our best to repay the audience with excellent performances for the remaining shows."

Meanwhile, Jung Min-chan also faced controversy in February when he was included in the lineup for the 'March 1st Independence Movement Commemorative Free Concert' hosted by far-right YouTuber Jeon Han-gil. Regarding this, Jung Min-chan at the time explained, "I received an offer to appear, but I did not receive a specific explanation regarding the purpose of the event. I have no connection to or interest in this event."

Meanwhile, Starbucks Korea conducted a 'Tumbler Tank Series' promotion on the 18th, marking the 46th anniversary of the the 18th Democratization Movement. At the time, it used slogans such as "Tank on the desk!"

Criticism poured out, linking the promotion to the tanks of the martial law forces deployed in Gwangju in May 1980 and the torture-to-death case of Park Jong-chul. Ultimately, Starbucks Korea suspended the event, and Shinsegae Group Chairman Jung Yong-jin dismissed the Starbucks Korea representative and the relevant executive.

I sincerely apologize for causing discomfort and disappointment to many people with the post I recently uploaded.

As I have been managing performances, rehearsals, and various activities on my own, I posted the content without properly recognizing situations related to the current social atmosphere.

I did not intend to convey any specific message or meaning. However, as a result, I caused pain and discomfort to many people, and I have only now deeply realized how reckless and insufficient I was.

Furthermore, by observing the opinions and reactions of many people, I have deeply reflected on the need for a more careful attitude toward social atmosphere and meaning as someone whose job is to express things. Even though I have always worked to convey people's hearts through the stage and works, I deeply regret that I overlooked parts that I should have examined and considered more carefully.

I have also learned, albeit belatedly, how much meaning and pain this event holds for many people, and that there are those speaking up and taking action for a better direction within it. I deeply reflect on the fact that I acted without properly recognizing this. I sincerely apologize to those who were hurt by my insufficiency.

I am sorry for disappointing those who have always supported me despite my shortcomings and watched over me through performances and works. Through this incident, I will learn more, and from now on, I will act with greater caution and responsibility.

I sincerely apologize once again.

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*This content was translated by AI.