Actor Cha Gang-seok Faces Backlash for Pro-Martial Law Post

Actor Cha Gang-seok sparked controversy after expressing support for martial law on his Instagram account. On April 4, he shared a screenshot of a search result for a spy reporting hotline, stating, "There are too many spies; I welcome martial law. Please capture all the spies and sentence them to death." Following this, a netizen criticized him via direct message, to which Cha responded by emphasizing that South Korea is a free democratic country where thoughts are also free.

As lawmakers convened that night to pass a resolution demanding the lifting of the emergency martial law, Cha commented, "If President Yoon Seok-yeol has any cards to play, he should show them quickly; otherwise, he might face impeachment soon."

The backlash was swift, leading him to close the comments section on his post. On April 5, Cha issued an apology, expressing regret for drawing attention to himself and acknowledging that he had posted out of heightened sensitivity regarding recent spy issues. He admitted to using inappropriate and extreme language.

Cha further explained, "I feel very sorry for using lowly and extreme expressions. I find it unfortunate that the current political climate is focused on division and hatred, driven by narrow-minded thinking and self-interest. The situation has become more sensitive with the emergence of spies."

He concluded by stating his love for the proud nation of South Korea and expressed gratitude and respect for those who criticized him. He assured that he would heed their advice and live more cautiously. Cha clarified that his disdain for spies does not equate to supporting President Yoon Seok-yeol or harboring hatred towards others, urging for understanding. Cha Gang-seok is primarily known for his work in musicals and performances, having appeared in productions such as 사랑을 이루어 드립니다 (Love Comes True) and 로미오와 줄리엣 (Romeo and Juliet).