Former Swimmer Jo Hee-yeon Apologizes for Controversial Comments on Gwangju Uprising

Jo Hee-yeon, a former swimmer and gold medalist at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games, has issued an apology after referring to the Gwangju Uprising as a 'riot' in a social media post. On June 9, she expressed regret, stating, "I commented that the Gwangju incident was a riot incited by North Korean spies after seeing a post that claimed this. I sincerely apologize to those who were hurt by my words. I want to clarify that my comments were not directed at the innocent citizens who lost their lives while advocating for democracy during the Gwangju Uprising."

Jo further acknowledged the potential harm her words could cause to the memory of those who suffered, saying, "I apologize once again for my remarks that could mislead people into thinking that the noble and innocent individuals involved were part of a riot. I will be more cautious as a public figure in the future."

The controversy began when Jo commented on social media, "I always say this: the Gwangju Uprising is a riot! It was a riot fueled by a spirit of rebellion! But now they want to enshrine the spirit of Gwangju in the constitution? It just makes me sigh."

When a netizen suggested she delete her comment, Jo responded, "There is freedom of thought and expression. I have every right to express my opinion. It doesn’t affect my life, so don’t bother me and go your own way."

Jo Hee-yeon won a gold medal in the women's 200m butterfly, along with a bronze in the women's 200m individual medley and another bronze in the women's 400m medley relay at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games, earning her the nickname 'The Little Mermaid.'