"First time I've ever been cursed like this": Ko Young-wook 'shocked' by barrage of malicious Japanese comments after mentioning AV actress [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Ko Young-wook, formerly a member of the group Rula, expressed discomfort after negative reactions emerged in Japan following his remarks about potentially pursuing a career as an adult video (AV) actress.

On the 14th, Ko wrote on his X account: "I thought I was used to being cursed, but this is the first time I've ever been cursed like this." He added, "I have long admired Japanese culture, including its music, films, and dramas. I also enjoy reading books by Japanese authors such as Osamu Dazai, and I have always held a favorable view of Japanese people, so this has come as quite a shock to me." He also shared a screenshot of the article title alongside his post.

The article introduced reactions from Japanese online users after Ko posted content suggesting he wanted to try becoming an AV actor in Japan. According to the report, some Japanese netizens responded with critical comments such as "Disgusting idea" and "Pathetic Korean," expressing their disapproval.

In response, Ko stated, "I used to dislike anti-Japanese agitation, but now I wonder if I should join in." He further added, "I don't think I'll be able to sleep easily tonight. Maybe I should just drink some Korean soju."

Earlier, on the 12th, Ko posted on his X account: "I just wanted to live happily while making people laugh," followed by, "It seems hard to find a job in Korea, and I heard somewhere that there's a shortage of male AV actors in Japan. If it's legally possible..." He later added, "If the law allows it," leading to interpretations that he was expressing interest in pursuing AV work in Japan, sparking widespread controversy primarily on online platforms.

However, it is reported that Ko has no concrete plans to actually advance his career in Japan or appear in an AV production. The statement was not meant as a genuine desire to become an AV actor but rather a self-deprecating joke expressing his helplessness toward reality. With entertainment activities in Korea effectively halted, the frustration and uncertainty he felt due to the difficulty of engaging in economic activities were reflected in his post.

Meanwhile, Ko Young-wook was sentenced to two years and six months in prison in 2013 on charges of sexually assaulting a minor. At that time, he was also ordered to have his personal information publicly disclosed for five years and to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet for three years—the first such order ever issued against a celebrity. After his release, he attempted to resume activities through platforms like Instagram and YouTube, but these efforts were thwarted due to his criminal record involving sexual offenses.

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*This content was translated by AI.