On September 23rd, a representative from Lee Na-eun‘s agency, Namoo Actors, told the press, “Lee Na-eun appeared on KwakTube’s channel without receiving any compensation. There was no exchange of money whatsoever.” The spokesperson further clarified, “All travel expenses were covered by KwakTube, who produced the video.”
This statement comes in response to recent controversy surrounding the pair’s travel video to Italy. On September 21st, netizen “A” claimed to have filed a complaint with the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), alleging that the video violated the Unfair Labeling or Advertising Act.
Adding fuel to the fire, YouTuber Lee Jin-ho recently suggested that the trip was not a casual outing but rather a carefully planned content creation endeavor. “A” argued that if this claim is true, KwakTube’s actions could potentially violate the “Guidelines for Recommendations and Guarantees in Advertisements.”, especially if there was an implied contract between the two parties.
However, Lee Na-eun’s agency’s statement that she received no payment for her appearance seems to negate potential violations of advertising laws.
The controversy stems from a video titled “My First Romantic Week in Italy,” uploaded to KwakTube’s channel on September 16th. The footage shows KwakTube and Lee Na-eun enjoying their Italian getaway. During a dinner scene, Kwak addresses past issues, saying, “I’m somewhat sorry,” and explains that he had previously blocked Lee Na-eun on social media due to misconceptions about her scandal.
This apology has drawn criticism, particularly in light of Lee Na-eun’s controversy related to her former group, April. In 2024, April members, including Lee Na-eun, faced allegations of bullying former member Lee Hyun-joo. While Lee Na-eun insists on her innocence, the controversy led to her withdrawal from the SBS drama “Taxi Driver” in March 2024 and the eventual disbandment of April in January 2024.
KwakTube’s apparent forgiveness of Lee Na-eun has been met with backlash, especially considering his own past experiences with school violence, which he has discussed on various entertainment shows. Despite KwakTube deleting the video and issuing two apologies, public criticism continues to mount.