Amidst the cosy ambience of a Gahoe-dong cafe, Han So-Hee, star of the Netflix series “Gyeongseong Creature,” engaged in a candid conversation with SpoTV News on January 15th. The interview not only delved into the series’ intriguing narratives but also explored a recent online controversy surrounding her social media activity.
Following the release of promotional stills from “Gyeongseong Creature,” Han So-Hee posted on her personal Instagram alongside an image of Korean independence activist Ahn Jung-geun. While many Korean viewers appreciated the juxtaposition, some Japanese individuals expressed discomfort, interpreting it as anti-Japanese sentiment and a lack of consideration for their cultural sensitivities.
The news outlet addressed this online debate, highlighting a particularly poignant comment: “I want to watch the drama, but as a Japanese, it takes courage.” Han So-Hee’s response, acknowledging the viewer’s apprehension while expressing gratitude for their courage displayed both empathy and understanding. This measured approach resonated with many, prompting discussions about the complex relationship between artistic expression and historical interpretation.
When SpoTV News inquired about potential concerns regarding her popularity in Japan, Han So-Hee adopted a direct approach.
These are the conversations as quoted by Daum.
When asked “Don’t you care about your popularity in Japan?“, Han So-hee responded, “Yes. It’s not like we’ve never had historical dramas like this in Korea before.”
She confessed, “I upload on my personal Instagram without calculating the impact. Still, what can I do if it’s the truth? I’m grateful for your opinion, but this is my opinion. If you say it’s not, you can think it’s not. It’s about respecting the opinions of people who have been together on social media or in society. That’s what I’m saying.”
This unwavering stance is noteworthy. As an artist navigating the global landscape, Han So-Hee’s words highlight the delicate balance between artistic freedom and responsible representation. While acknowledging diverse viewpoints, she firmly asserts her right to personal expression within her own space.
Her candour on this issue is noteworthy. In this brief exchange, Han So-Hee transcends the confines of celebrity controversy. She emerges as a thoughtful artist grappling with the challenges of historical narrative, cultural sensitivity, and artistic integrity. Her voice sparks discourse, urging us to engage in nuanced conversations about artistic expression and social responsibility in a globalized world.
Image — Lim Hyo Sun/Netflix
