Baek Jong-won to File Defamation Lawsuit Against Studio Ojaena's Kim Jae-hwan

Baek Jong-won, the CEO of The Born Korea, is preparing to file a defamation lawsuit against Kim Jae-hwan, the director of the YouTube channel Studio Ojaena, following allegations of 'broadcast abuse'. According to reports on May 16, Baek and his team have decided to take legal action due to what they consider excessive and unfounded accusations regarding his conduct in the broadcasting industry.

Kim Jae-hwan, a former MBC producer turned filmmaker known for acclaimed food documentaries like True Taste Show, has been vocal in his criticism of Baek and The Born Korea on the Studio Ojaena channel. His critiques began amid various controversies surrounding The Born Korea, particularly emphasizing the company's responsibility to foster cooperative relationships with franchise owners. Videos discussing these issues have garnered over a million views, resonating with many netizens.

Despite Baek's public apologies and proposed improvements from The Born Korea, criticism has persisted. Kim has notably intensified his allegations, claiming that Baek used his influence to prevent a professor from appearing on a show and blocked singer Kim Ho-joong from participating in an SBS program.

In response, Baek firmly denied these allegations, stating, "When a PD asks if I get along with a guest, I can simply say 'I don't know.' To say I blocked someone from appearing is something that wouldn't even be allowed by the network president." A PD who has worked closely with Baek for years also defended him, asserting that while Baek actively contributes to program discussions, it does not equate to 'broadcast abuse'.

Furthermore, The Born Korea is investigating claims that Kim and the Studio Ojaena team recorded conversations without consent and disseminated false information, leading to their decision to pursue legal action. This lawsuit is expected to involve investigations into the parties involved after it is filed.