Um Ji-young, the vocalist of the band Keun Geurim, has apologized following a controversy over her singing style during a performance of the national anthem at a baseball game.
On the 16th, Um Ji-young sang the national anthem before a 2026 KBO League regular season home game held at Changwon NC Park.
However, her use of flashy vocal techniques sparked a heated debate among netizens online.
As the controversy grew, an apology was posted via the official account of the band Keun Geurim.
Um Ji-young expressed her regret, stating, “I am sorry for causing discomfort with the national anthem. My thinking and skills were very lacking while preparing for the performance.”
She continued, “It was a huge and exciting stage for me, but I sincerely apologize for bringing shame to the NC side,” adding, “Thank you for both the critical comments and the comforting DMs.”
She further added, “I will work harder with a humbler attitude to return with a better performance. Above all, I sincerely bow my head and apologize once again to everyone who was upset by the national anthem.”
Some netizens criticized the performance, commenting that “the national anthem should be sung as a national anthem.” On the other hand, some defended her, saying, “It wasn’t a huge mistake, so I hope she stays strong,” “Let’s not push her too hard,” and “Blind criticism should be avoided.”
Below is the full text of the apology:
I am sorry for causing discomfort with the national anthem.
My thinking and skills were very lacking while preparing for the national anthem.
It was a huge and exciting stage for me…
I sincerely apologize for bringing shame to the NC side.
Thank you for the resentful comments and the comforting DMs.
I will work harder with a humbler attitude to return with a better performance.
To everyone who was upset by the national anthem,
I sincerely bow my head and apologize once again.
