Comedian and radio host Kim Shin Young has once again addressed the controversy surrounding her past remarks about virtual idol group PLAVE.
On the February 23 episode of Hope Song at Noon with Kim Shin Young on MBC FM4U, she discussed music chart rankings with rapper Hangzoo. When PLAVE’s song “Dash” was mentioned for securing third place, Hangzoo praised the group’s songwriting, composing, and choreography skills. Kim Shin Young agreed and added even more praise for the members’ hard work.
They’re a self-produced idol group. There are five members — three handle composing, and two create choreography. They make the music they want to make.
— Kim Shin Young
The comedian shared that she had been making an effort to learn more about the group, including memorizing their names. She credited her elementary school-aged niece as her “PLAVE teacher,” revealing that her niece had been upset over the previous controversy and had taken it upon herself to educate her aunt with instructor-like dedication.
My elementary school niece has been teaching me a lot. It doesn’t matter if it’s my niece—if there’s something to learn, I should learn it. She’s my PLAVE teacher.
[After the controversy] my niece seemed upset. She told me to learn from her. When I said I would, she even said she’d teach me like a star lecturer.
— Kim Shin Young
The controversy started on February 16, when Kim Shin Young commented on PLAVE’s promotional methods, expressing difficulty in understanding their approach and questioning how to engage with a virtual group. Her remarks sparked backlash from fans, who viewed them as dismissive, with some calling for her resignation from the radio program.
Popular Comedian Faces Backlash For Belittling Virtual Idols
Fans Demand Kim Shin Young To Step Down As Radio DJ Despite Apologizing For PLAVE Controversy
In response, Kim Shin Young issued a public apology on February 17, acknowledging that her words had lacked fairness and objectivity.
Kim Shin Young Apologizes For Virtual Idol Group Controversy
It seems like her apology and her recent comments have turned netizens on Kim’s side once again.
- “Shin Young is such a mature adult. I don’t even understand why she’s being criticized, but she’s handling it so well. We should all learn from her. Truly an adult”
- “She’s so mature”
- “Shin Young is such a good person.. The people who demanded more than just an apology and called for her resignation should take a good look at themselves and reflect…”
- “Even now, people are choosing someone to attack. These haters act like they’re something special.”
- “Shin Young is such a big-hearted person. I really respect her. She took so much unnecessary hate—it’s honestly heartbreaking.”
