Actress Kim Hye Eun has found herself at the center of controversy after criticizing writer Yoo Si Min, a well-known Seoul National University graduate. Following backlash, she shared a handwritten apology on Instagram — which has since been deleted — saying she now realizes how powerful and serious words can be.
In the early morning of June 4, Kim Hye Eun posted an apology letter to her Instagram Story, stating that she waited until after election vote counting was over so she wouldn’t “disturb the important time when the people make their choice.”
She began by saying, “I sincerely apologize for the post I made on May 31.” She admitted her words caused discomfort and disappointment to many people and said she takes full responsibility.
“As someone who has spoken publicly for many years, I have once again learned how heavy words can be,” she wrote, promising to be more careful moving forward. “I won’t forget this lesson and will work harder to be a more disciplined actress,” she added.
Kim Hye Eun also said she would now speak more thoughtfully, keeping in mind her influence as a public figure. She ended her letter with, “As someone who loves Korea, I truly support a happier, stronger, and more respected future for our country.”
The controversy started after Yoo Si Min appeared on Kim Eo Jun’s Dasboeida on May 28 and was accused of mocking Seol Nan Young, the wife of People Power Party’s presidential candidate Kim Moon Soo.
In response, Kim Hye Eun — who, like Yoo Si Min, also graduated from Seoul National University — posted on Instagram, “I don’t think I’ve ever been this ashamed of having graduated from Seoul National University. I want to say sorry on behalf of us.”
She went on to say that real value comes from hard work and sincerity, not a diploma. She also praised women like Seol Nan Young and veteran actress Kim Young Ok as role models, saying they give her energy through their strength and example.
Although Kim Hye Eun later deleted her post, the replies and heated comments caused the situation to escalate. When asked by a commenter about controversial remarks made by a candidate’s wife, she replied that she hadn’t heard them and asked people not to fight. When another commenter asked why she deleted her post, she answered, “Because of people like you, I end up deleting it” — a response that drew even more backlash.
Now, with her apology shared and then deleted, Kim Hye Eun remains in the spotlight as both fans and critics respond to her words.
