Park Myung-soo "Mask Price Gouging Remarks, Regrettable Partisan Logic"... Donates 20,000 Masks

"Because I am a comedian, I will focus on making people laugh from now on"

Broadcaster Park Myung-soo / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] Comedian Park Myung-soo clarified on the 27th regarding his controversial remarks about 'mask profiteering,' saying, "It seems to be repeatedly used for partisan arguments, but I want to say that it was never meant that way."

On the morning broadcast of KBS CoolFM's 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show,' Park said, "There are rumors spreading that I said it was difficult to get masks. I did not intend to belittle the hard work of those working in the field."

He added, "It was meant to empathize with those struggling to obtain masks."

He also stated, "I recently got to know a really good mask factory owner and was able to purchase 20,000 masks," expressing his intention, "I will donate them first to the underprivileged and those in need."

He continued, "Since I am a comedian, I will focus on making people laugh from now on," and said, "I sincerely thank those working on the front lines, and let's all stay strong together."

Earlier, on the 25th, Park Myung-soo pointed out the issue of mask profiteering while sharing a listener's story about buying reusable masks amid the mask shortage on 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show.'

Park said, "I saw people lining up to buy masks on the news yesterday, and I don't quite understand how it makes sense that masks are unavailable," adding, "As far as I know, in the past, when masks were cheap, you could buy them in bundles for 800 to 1,000 won, but now one costs 4,000 won. The price has quadrupled."

He continued, "Since many people are looking for them, prices will naturally rise, but going from 1,000 won to 4,000 won is a problem," and added, "I think it's important that we can use masks comfortably."

In particular, he emphasized, "While some profit is understandable, since masks are necessary for the public and hoarding is unacceptable, I hope people will help out," and stressed, "I hope we can reach a time when masks can be used comfortably."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.