Gong Yoo’s Past Political Remarks Resurface Amid Martial Law Turmoil

On the night of December 3, President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law, plunging South Korea into chaos. This unprecedented move marked the first martial law declaration in 45 years, the last being in October 1979 following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee by the KCIA Director, Kim Jae-gyu. Although the National Assembly repealed the order within six hours in the early hours of December 4, the unfolding events, reminiscent of the “12.12: The Day,” left the nation in shock.

The aftermath has sent ripples through the entertainment industry. Many celebrities, including Lee Sang-min, DJ DOC’s Kim Chang-ryeol, musical actor Kim Ji-woo, broadcaster Kim Na-young, MBC anchor Im Hyun-joo, director Yang Woo-seok, writer and broadcaster Heo Ji-woong, and comedian Park Myung-soo, have voiced their opinions on the martial law incident, drawing public attention.

In contrast, Gong Yoo has attracted attention for his past political remarks, which have resurfaced online. A July 2005 interview from Vogue magazine recently reappeared in online community forums, sparking discussion.

In the interview, when asked, “Who do you consider the most admirable man?” Gong Yoo replied, “My father, Michael Jordan, and Park Chung-hee.”

Park Chung-hee, South Korea’s 5th through 9th president, is one of the most influential figures in the country’s modern history. However, he remains a deeply polarizing figure, symbolizing pro-Japanese collaboration, military dictatorship, and oppressive rule. His regime, marked by authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses, is often remembered as one of the darkest periods in South Korea’s democratic history.

The recent martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk-yeol, widely criticized for lacking justification, has drawn comparisons to Park Chung-hee’s authoritarian rule. This has led to renewed scrutiny of Gong Yoo’s historical perspective. Fans are questioning his past admiration for Park Chung-hee and expressing hopes that his views have evolved over the years, with some calling for an explanation.

Gong Yoo is scheduled to hold a promotional interview on December 5 for the Netflix original series “The Trunk.” All eyes are on whether he will address the controversy.

Source: Daum