Musical Actor Cha Gang-seok Apologizes for Controversial Post Supporting Martial Law

Musical actor Cha Gang-seok (차강석), 34, issued an apology on the 5th after facing backlash for a post on social media in which he expressed support for President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law. On the previous day, he wrote, "There are too many spies, so I welcome martial law. Please capture all the spies and sentence them to death."

Following this, a netizen criticized his post via direct message, sharing a screenshot and stating, "Our country is a free democratic nation. Thoughts are also free. I stand proud and dignified."

In response to the controversy, Cha released a statement saying, "I posted this in a moment of heightened sensitivity regarding the recent spy issue, filled with expectations for the eradication of anti-state forces. I sincerely apologize for using crude and extreme expressions."

He further expressed his concern about the current political climate, stating, "I feel very sorry for the narrow-minded thinking and the focus on division that leads to mutual hatred among people. However, it seems I became more sensitive as evidence of spies emerged."

Cha emphasized, "I love my proud country. I will listen to constructive criticism and reflect on myself. I dislike spies that harm national interests, but that does not mean I support President Yoon or harbor hatred towards anyone."

Cha Gang-seok has previously appeared in musicals such as 'Killing the Musical' (죽여주는 이야기), 'Love Comes True' (사랑을 이루어 드립니다), and 'Romeo and Juliet' (로미오와 줄리엣).