On April 17, 2025, actress Seo Ye-ji found herself at the center of controversy once again after responding to a fan's message mentioning her ex-boyfriend, actor Kim Jung-hyun. The incident unfolded on a paid fan communication platform, where Seo's reaction sparked mixed reactions from netizens.
The fan expressed frustration towards Kim Jung-hyun, saying, "I get so angry every time I think of that Kim Jung Hyun or Park Jung Hyun or whoever he is." In response, Seo Ye-ji replied, "That name is banned. Stress." This remark, intended as a humorous dismissal, did not land well with many online observers.
Netizens quickly took to social media to voice their opinions, with a significant number criticizing Seo for her flippant response. One user commented, "I don’t care whether or not she continues to promote or not, as long as she keeps her mouth shut. What did she do that was so good that she keeps talking about it and dragging my actor into it?" This sentiment echoed among many who felt that Seo was trivializing serious issues surrounding her past.
Others pointed out the gravity of the allegations that have shadowed Seo Ye-ji since 2021, including accusations of gaslighting Kim Jung-hyun. During the filming of the MBC drama "Time" in 2018, Kim Jung-hyun reportedly refused to engage in physical contact with his co-star, a decision believed to be influenced by Seo's controlling behavior at the time. It was alleged that she sent him messages instructing him to avoid any form of physical intimacy, including texts like "Kim Ttak-san, take out all your skinship" and "Skinship No No." These revelations have painted a troubling picture of their relationship, leading to speculation and backlash against Seo.
One netizen echoed this concern, stating, "So ridiculous…Kim Jung Hyun may be the perpetrator to the other actress, but in the relationship with Seo Ye Ji, isn’t he the victim? Gaslighting is also a crime…I hate how lightly they are taking it." This comment reflects a growing awareness and sensitivity towards issues of emotional abuse and manipulation in relationships, particularly in the public eye.
Despite the backlash, some fans defended Seo, suggesting that the criticism might be disproportionately harsh. One supporter remarked, "I think it’s funny…everyone is always more harsh towards female celebrities." This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about gender biases in the entertainment industry and public perception.
Seo Ye-ji's past controversies have been extensive, with allegations of school violence, academic fraud, and abuse of power also contributing to her tarnished reputation. Following her involvement in these scandals, she took a hiatus from acting after starring in the tvN drama "Eve" in 2022. However, she made a comeback recently by hosting an episode of "Saturday Night Live Korea" (SNL Korea), where she attempted to address her past in a light-hearted manner.
During her appearance on SNL Korea, Seo Ye-ji made a self-referential joke about her previous controversies, stating, "I will have fun by 'gaslighting' all the crew." This comment, while intended to be humorous, drew mixed reactions, with some viewers appreciating her ability to poke fun at herself, while others criticized her for seemingly downplaying serious issues.
Seo Ye-ji first gained recognition in the entertainment industry with her debut in the sitcom "Potato Star 2013QR3" in 2013. She quickly rose to fame through her roles in popular dramas such as "Save Me," "Lawless Lawyer," and the critically acclaimed "It's Okay to Not Be Okay." Despite her talent and previous successes, her recent controversies have overshadowed her career, raising questions about her future in the industry.
As the public continues to scrutinize her actions and statements, Seo Ye-ji's ability to navigate this complicated landscape remains uncertain. The mixed reactions to her recent comments reflect a broader conversation about accountability and the expectations placed on public figures, especially women in the entertainment sector.
In light of her past and the ongoing debates surrounding her behavior, it remains to be seen how Seo Ye-ji will address the criticisms and whether she will be able to rehabilitate her image in the eyes of the public. As the narrative unfolds, many are watching closely, eager to see if she can turn the tide and reclaim her place in the industry.
