Critic Slams Broadcasting Trends Amid Yang Sang-guk’s Attitude Controversy: “Not Just an Individual Problem”

Critic Wi Geun-woo has spoken out regarding the recent controversy surrounding comedian Yang Sang-guk.

On the 11th, Wi Geun-woo posted on his personal account, “Honestly, I don’t believe this is simply a case of Yang Sang-guk briefly becoming popular and then losing his way.” He pointed to the broader trends in the broadcasting industry regarding how Yang Sang-guk’s behavior and character have been utilized.

He continued, “It should be viewed as a result of mainstream shows, including ‘Hangout with Yoo,’ promoting Yang Sang-guk’s blatant performance of Gyeongsang-do dialect and masculinity as the ‘it’ trend.” He also criticized the current state of character consumption in variety shows, noting that the critical context of the movie ‘Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time’ is often erased and consumed as a shallow Busan macho fantasy meme by Korean men.

Yang Sang-guk has recently increased his presence in the variety scene with a character defined by a strong Gyeongsang-do accent and exaggerated reactions. He has appeared on various programs such as ‘Hangout with Yoo,’ ‘My Little Old Boy,’ ‘You Quiz on the Block,’ ‘Omniscient Interfering View,’ and ‘Same Bed, Different Dreams.’ However, some have pointed out that he repeatedly crossed the line with his remarks and attitude.

In particular, during an appearance on the web variety show ‘Pinggyego’ released in February, Yang Sang-guk told MC Yoo Jae-suk, “I usually listen to senior Yoo Jae-suk, but I think that’s not right,” and “Mr. Yoo Jae-suk, if you say it one more time, I’ll scold you.” Following the broadcast, he faced heavy criticism for his rude behavior.

After netizens flooded in demanding an apology, Yang Sang-guk bowed his head, writing in the comments, “I am very sorry for making you uncomfortable.” With an upcoming appearance on KBS 2TV’s ‘Problem Child in House,’ many are curious if he will address the situation directly. ‘Problem Child in House’ will air on KBS 2TV on the 21st at 8:30 PM.