[Edaily Starin YUN GI BACK Reporter] Amid controversy over remarks actor Gong Hyung-jin made to his junior actress Cha Ji-yeon at an event commemorating the 70th anniversary of Far East Broadcasting Company, his agency has issued an official apology.

Gong Hyung-jin’s agency, K-Heart Entertainment, released an official statement on the 19th, stating, “At the time, Gong Hyung-jin spoke to his junior actress Cha Ji-yeon, with whom he has a close personal relationship, with the intention of encouraging her not to be nervous on set and to feel at ease,” adding, “He had no intention of embarrassing or offending her.”
They continued, “We regret that the conversation and expressions exchanged on set were misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings and controversy,” and added, “We have already apologized to Cha Ji-yeon, and we once again apologize to everyone who was offended.”
Previously, Gong Hyung-jin came under fire for remarks he made to Cha Ji-yeon while hosting the stage at the Far East Broadcasting Company’s 70th-anniversary celebration. Controversy erupted after critics pointed out that his remarks, made in a public setting, showed a lack of consideration for a junior actress.
In response, his agency explained that the remarks stemmed from their personal friendship but acknowledged that he had not exercised sufficient caution in his words and actions during a public event.
The agency stated, “We take seriously the fact that, even if the remarks were made in a friendly atmosphere, consideration for others must take priority at public events,” adding, “We sincerely apologize if those who witnessed the event or our fans found it offensive.”
They also apologized to the event organizers. The agency said, “We are sorry that this meaningful event—marking the 70th anniversary of Far East Broadcasting Company—has garnered attention for this controversy rather than for its original purpose,” and expressed regret to the event organizers and attendees.
Finally, the agency added, “We hope this matter will be resolved amicably through mutual understanding and consideration, rather than being overinterpreted without fully considering the intentions of those involved or the context of the event,” and pledged, “We will strive to be even more cautious in our public words and actions in the future.”