Seo Ye-ji Confronts Controversies On SNL Korea

On April 12, 2025, Seo Ye-ji made a bold return to the spotlight as the host of Coupang Play's comedy show, 'SNL Korea Season 7'. The episode, which aired at 8 PM, marked a significant moment for the actress, who has faced scrutiny over past controversies. With a bright smile, Seo opened the show by stating, "I'll destroy them all," setting the tone for an evening filled with laughter and reflection.

Seo Ye-ji's appearance on the show was not just another hosting gig; it was a chance to confront her past head-on. Introduced by Shin Dong-yeop as a "luxury actress with fatal elegance and high-class grotesque vibes," Seo expressed her nervousness and excitement about performing comedy for the first time in front of a large audience. She acknowledged the pressure of the moment, saying, "This is my first time doing comedy in front of many people. I'm nervous and excited."

The episode also provided a platform for Seo to address the gaslighting allegations that have followed her since 2021. During a segment, she jokingly claimed, "I’ll gaslight the SNL crew and make it fun," which elicited laughter from the audience. This was a reference to her controversial relationship with actor Kim Jung-hyun, during which she was accused of manipulating him emotionally. In leaked KakaoTalk messages from 2020, she had referred to him as 'Kim Ttikttik' and instructed him to treat his co-star Seohyun coldly, a revelation that sparked significant backlash.

In addition to the gaslighting allegations, Seo faced accusations of school violence, academic record fabrication, and staff abuse, which led her to return 225 million won in advertising fees at the end of 2023. These issues have haunted her career, but she used her time on 'SNL' to reclaim her narrative. "I’ve been through a lot, and it's time to laugh about it," she seemed to convey through her performance.

During the show, Seo also addressed rumors regarding her personal life, particularly a rumored romantic link to actor Kim Soo-hyun and his cousin. She firmly denied these claims in a post on Naver Fan Cafe Yejieyechan on March 13, stating, "I have no relationship with Kim Soo-hyun or his cousin. I don’t understand why I need to clarify this, but I feel frustrated." This statement was part of her broader effort to distance herself from the negative publicity that has surrounded her.

Throughout the episode, Seo showcased her comedic chops, engaging in playful banter with the show's crew. In a segment titled 'Seo Ye-ji GPT', she humorously confronted Kim Won-hoon for not responding to gossipers in the restroom, saying, "Why did you hold back your anger? If it were me, I would have said something right then and there. It's embarrassing to sit quietly while people talk behind your back. I've been through that a lot."

Seo's performance also included a dance parody of JeNny's 'Mantra', where she competed with Lee Soo-ji, adding a fun and lively element to the show. Her ability to mix humor with her personal experiences resonated with the audience, who appreciated her candidness.

After the show, Seo Ye-ji expressed her gratitude to the audience and crew, saying, "This day is one I will never forget. It felt like a deep emotional release, more profound than any tears shed at an awards ceremony." Her heartfelt remarks highlighted the significance of the evening for her, both personally and professionally.

With her appearance on 'SNL Korea', Seo Ye-ji not only entertained viewers but also took a step towards reclaiming her image. By addressing her past controversies with humor and grace, she demonstrated resilience and a willingness to engage with her critics. As she continues to navigate the complexities of fame and public scrutiny, her journey serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures in the age of social media.

Seo Ye-ji's return to the stage has sparked discussions about accountability, personal growth, and the power of humor as a tool for healing. As she moves forward, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how she continues to evolve in her career and personal life.