Kim Jin Woong is facing backlash after calling senior announcer Do Kyung Wan a “sub” of his wife, singer Jang Yoon Jung on KBS’s Boss In The Mirror.
The controversy began when the hosts discussed successful marriages. Announcer Um Ji In praised Do Kyung Wan and Jang Yoon Jung’s relationship as a model marriage. Others agreed—except Kim Jin Woong.
Kim said, “This might sound disrespectful, but I can’t live as someone’s sub.” He implied Do Kyung Wan was subordinate to his wife, sparking immediate backlash.
The comment didn’t sit well with viewers or Jang Yoon Jung. She slammed Kim on Instagram:
“We literally don’t know each other… Ha. If the other person can’t laugh about it with you, your words or actions cannot be considered a joke or playful banter. In a family, there is no such thing as one being a subordinate.”
— Jang Yoon Jung
As the criticism grew, Kim Jin Woong issued a public apology on social media:
“I sincerely apologize to seniors Do Kyung Wan and Jang Yoon Jung for the careless remark I made on today’s broadcast. … I said something I should never have said. … I feel nothing but deep remorse. … I will always remain mindful so that this never happens again.”
— Kim Jin Woong
Jang Yoon Jung later deleted her initial post and shared Kim’s apology via text and phone call, saying she has accepted it and wants to move on.
“I sincerely thank so many of you for sympathizing with my post, comforting my hurt feelings, and sending me your support. … I believe that if someone comes forward with that intention, I should accept it, at least considering their sincerity.”
— Jang Yoon Jung
KBS has removed the clip featuring Kim’s remark from their website amid the controversy.
