Director Bong Joon-ho, left, and singer Lim Young-woong. Lim posted a birthday message for his dog on social media on the evening of Saturday, when the impeachment vote against President Yoon Suk Yeol was underway. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-bin, captured from Lim Young-woong's social media

Popular trot singer Lim Young-woong has found himself at the center of controversy after reportedly saying, "Why should I speak up? I'm not a politician," in response to a direct message questioning his silence on the impeachment crisis surrounding President Yoon Suk Yeol.

As cultural figures like filmmaker Bong Joon-ho voice strong support for impeachment, critics have called Lim's remarks inappropriate for a top-tier artist. Others defended his right to avoid political involvement, pointing to societal pressure on celebrities in South Korea to maintain silence on sensitive issues.

On Dec. 7, Lim shared a social media post celebrating his dog's birthday with a photo and caption, "Happy birthday to our Siwol."

Shortly after, a social media user criticized his perceived indifference to the impeachment vote, saying, "What are you doing in this situation? The nation is rallying over the president's impeachment motion, and you seem utterly indifferent."

Lim allegedly responded, "What? Why should I speak up? I'm not a politician." The exchange quickly went viral, dividing public opinion online. While some labeled his remarks as "thoughtless," others defended his freedom of expression.

Lim's agency, Mulgogi Music, has yet to issue a statement, despite repeated media inquiries.

A conversation allegedly exchanged between singer Lim Young-woong and a social media user around 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 7, as shared by the user. Captured from social media

Societal pressure on entertainers

Analysts suggest that the controversy reflects South Korea's societal expectations for celebrities. From issues like drunk driving to political comments, entertainers face intense scrutiny.

Past examples include actor Kim Gyu-ri, who faced backlash for her remarks during the 2008 mad cow disease protests, and singer Kim Yoon-ah, who was criticized by conservatives after condemning Japan's release of radioactive wastewater in 2023.

Cultural critic Ha Jae-geun said, "The fear of being stigmatized for a single remark has made many entertainers overly defensive."

While filmmakers have historically taken bold stances on social issues, singers as a group have rarely voiced collective opinions. Critics argue that Lim's largely conservative middle-aged fanbase may have influenced his hesitation to comment.

Cultural critic Sung Sang-min said, "Remaining silent was Lim Young-woong's choice. Rather than criticizing those who stay silent, we should support artists who speak out and create an environment where they can do so freely."

Critics call Lim's response inappropriate

Others argue that Lim's response was tone-deaf, given the gravity of the situation. Commentators point out that martial law and impeachment transcend political or ethical debates, involving legal violations. Kim Heon-sik, a professor at Jungwon University, said, "Martial law is a matter of legality, not personal ethics. Responding with ‘Why should I?' shows a lack of understanding of the seriousness of the issue."

Sociology professor Choi Hang-seop at Kookmin University said, "The public's collective anger stems from the perception that, while the nation suffers under martial law, Lim appears carefree. If he doesn't apologize, this resentment could escalate, especially among younger generations."

The martial law declaration has cast a heavy shadow over South Korea's cultural scene. Major broadcasters, including MBC, SBS and tvN, have canceled entertainment programs, airing news specials or lectures instead.

Singer Lim Young-woong / Courtesy of Mulgogi Music

Over 2,500 figures in the film industry, including director Bong Joon-ho and actress Moon So-ri, issued a statement on Dec. 7 demanding President Yoon's impeachment and arrest. Celebrities like actress Go Ah-sung and singer Lee Seung-hwan have actively voiced their discontent, with some attending protests in Yeouido.

Former IZ*ONE member Lee Chae-yeon indirectly criticized Lim, stating on social media, "Not in a position to talk politics? As entertainers, it's precisely our job to use our voices."

Singer Yoon Jong-shin, center, and other cultural figures deliver a statement demanding a thorough investigation into the death of actor Lee Sun-kyun, who passed away while under police investigation for drug charges, at the Press Center in Seoul, Jan. 12. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.