Park Wi, even failed to gain empathy from people with disabilities.. Kim Hyuk-geon: "No need to increase subscribers through sympathy" [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Kim Hyuk-geon, a member of the band The Cross who overcame quadriplegia, recently spoke out regarding the controversy surrounding Park Wi that has stirred online and offline discussions.

On the 24th, Kim posted on his personal social media: "While making music, I strive not to reveal my physical handicap, focusing instead on the music and performance alone. Even when creating YouTube videos, I make sure the wheelchair is not necessarily visible. Although my channel has few subscribers, I believe there is no need to increase them by seeking sympathy or special attention due to disability. It brings me joy and happiness to freely play the music I want and love, share it with you through that music, and connect in moments of mutual understanding."

He continued, "I recently observed a controversy surrounding a disabled YouTuber. I believe there is clear meaning in openly displaying one's disability and sharing their life story. However, for many severely disabled individuals like myself, boldly revealing our disabilities to the world may not always be easy."

Kim added, "I have seen comments such as 'We will no longer help people with disabilities' or 'There is no need to help.' I am grateful to have been born in South Korea and to live in Seoul. From disability call taxis to subway accessibility facilities and personal assistance services... without these numerous forms of support, it would be extremely difficult for severely disabled individuals to get through each day. I am deeply thankful for these supports, again and again."

He particularly emphasized, "I hope this controversy does not lead to all people with disabilities being belittled or worsen social perceptions. I wish we could understand each other a little more and live together. I will continue to live with a heart of gratitude toward everyone in society and around me who offers help. And I hope this incident leaves no great wounds or despair between us."

Kim Hyuk-geon formed The Cross with Lee Si-ha in 1999 and officially debuted in 2003 with their first album 'Melody Quus'. At the time, they gained popularity through title track 'Don't Cry' and follow-up songs like 'For You'. However, in 2012, he was involved in a traffic accident and diagnosed with quadriplegia, causing widespread sorrow. Despite this, he succeeded in making a comeback through his passion for life and music, along with relentless effort, spreading hope to many.

Meanwhile, Park Wi announced on the 14th that he suffered an accident while disembarking from a KTX train after using it for a lecture. He stated that as he descended a ramp in his wheelchair, the wheel caught on the foot of a public service worker, causing him to be thrown out of the wheelchair and fall to the ground. Although he released CCTV footage to seek empathy for the incident, it instead triggered backlash.

Despite repeated apologies from the public service worker, criticism mounted that Park Wi's approach—publicly releasing CCTV footage and appearing to single out an individual in anger—was excessive. In response, Park Wi deleted the video and posted an apology statement. However, public outrage continues to persist.

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*This content was translated by AI.