Controversy has erupted online following the release of a video capturing inappropriate comments made by reporters during a training session of the South Korean national football team.
On June 9, various online communities and social media platforms quickly shared footage of the training session. The video features team captain Son Heung-min running extensively to improve his condition alongside his teammates. However, it also recorded conversations among individuals believed to be reporters on site.
In the video, one person is heard making remarks directed at Son, such as, "Is he running like a squad leader because he’s the captain?" and "He’s running like he’s in the military, isn’t he?" Another individual responded with, "Those who haven’t even served in the military, geez," and "They don’t even know the military’s military character, those XXs," shocking viewers. The first speaker laughed and replied, "I’ve done a little, you know."
A woman present at the scene attempted to intervene, warning that their conversation could be recorded. Nevertheless, the discussion continued.
As the video gained traction online, JTBC, which initially posted it, made the original video private and later released an edited version with the problematic comments removed.
In a statement, JTBC clarified in the comments section that the muted portions of the video did not belong to their reporters, stating, "The audio included was from unspecified individuals present at the scene." They added, "At the time, JTBC was focused on covering Son Heung-min’s training and did not recognize the comments made. We later confirmed the issue through comments and deemed the remarks unacceptable, leading to immediate muting."
However, online reactions included sentiments like, "Why connect military service with football skills?" and "There’s no sense of respect for the player here." Others expressed disbelief that such comments were made at a national team training session, noting Son’s years of dedication to the team. Some netizens criticized the reporters for continuing their conversation despite recognizing the inappropriateness of their remarks.
Additionally, some users suggested that the comments revealed a longstanding bias against athletes who have not fulfilled their military obligations, asserting that such dialogue is unacceptable in a public reporting environment.
The identity of the individuals making the comments has not been officially confirmed. However, the rapid spread of the video suggests that discussions regarding inappropriate behavior and professional ethics in journalism will continue.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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