Comedian Lee Yong-jin's Controversial Remarks Stir Outrage

Controversy erupted after comedian Lee Yong-jin made inflammatory remarks about South Korea's low birth rate during an episode of his YouTube show, 'Yongtaro,' where K-pop idol Kim Chaewon from the group Le Seraphim was a guest. The episode, which aired on March 19, 2025, featured Lee performing a tarot reading while addressing questions from Chaewon, including her prospects for marriage.

During the episode, Kim Chaewon asked, "When will I get married in my life?" expressing a desire to marry as it is a significant life event for her. Lee responded enthusiastically, indicating that marriage would lead to greater happiness for Chaewon, stating, "You will be better if you get married. Only happy days are left. It's a Hyomo Yangcho style." However, the tone changed abruptly when he began expressing discontent regarding the low birth rate in South Korea and changing marriage norms.

Lee shockingly stated, "Your birth rate also seems low, and there are XX symptoms regarding the form of marriage," causing a moment of confusion during the lighthearted segment. He continued to air his grievances by mentioning a new student in Ganghwa-do, Incheon, who had just entered first grade at elementary school, emphasizing the severity of the declining birth rate by saying, "One new student entered an elementary school in Ganghwa-do, Incheon. First grade of elementary school." This sudden shift in tone was jarring, leaving Kim Chaewon visibly taken aback.

The initial excitement of the interrogation quickly turned sour, prompting viewers on social media to react strongly against Lee's comments. Criticism erupted, with many viewers expressing dismay at his tone, finding it rude to discuss such a sensitive topic with a young female guest. Comments flooded in online with sentiments like, "Why are you voicing such offensive remarks in front of someone so young?" and "You should consider your words more carefully in discussions like these!" Many felt it was inappropriate to direct such frustrations at a young idol not involved in the societal issues he was ranting about.

In the wake of the backlash, the production team for 'Yongtaro' took action by editing the video on March 22, 2025, quietly deleting the contentious remarks without issuing an official apology or explanation. This sparked further outrage from viewers who felt that simply removing the comments post-controversy was insufficient.

Observers noted that while Lee Yong-jin's frustration might reflect broader societal concerns regarding Korea's declining birth rates and shifting family structures, his approach during the segment was widely perceived as abrupt and disrespectful. Commenters on social media questioned why Lee would vent his frustrations in such an unwarranted manner, stating things like, "If you care so much about birth rates, why not take responsibility yourself?"

In closing remarks from the episode, Lee did express remorse to Kim Chaewon, saying, "I'm very angry. I'm sorry. (Kim) Chaewon, I'm sorry," trying to frame his outburst as an off-the-cuff reflection rather than a directed attack. However, many viewers felt the damage had already been done.

This controversy highlights the increasingly cautious environment around discussions of sensitive societal issues in South Korea, particularly concerning marriage and childbirth, which are often deeply personal and politically charged topics. Events like this further complicate the relationship between public figures and their audience, where the lines between humor and hurt can often blur.