Hong Hye-gul and Jin Joong-kwon Reconcile: "Apologize for Criticizing the Writing, a Courageous Decision"

Hong Hye-gul Medical Specialist Reporter / Photo by Hong Hye-gul Facebook

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Lim Juhyung] Hong Hye-gul, the representative of the medical channel 'Biondwi,' and former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon, who had clashed over whether to take Tylenol in relation to symptoms of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), have reconciled.

On the afternoon of the 18th, Hong posted on his Facebook, "Jin Joong-kwon apologized for criticizing my post about Tylenol," adding, "I appreciate his courageous decision."

He continued, "I also apologize for hurting many people's feelings regarding the diagnostic kit issue," and added, "Since these are difficult times for everyone, I believe reconciliation and cooperation are needed rather than distrust and conflict."

Earlier that day, former professor Jin had apologized first, saying, "Hong Hye-gul was right about the matter (that Tylenol is safer than ibuprofen). I am sorry."

On the 15th, Hong shared an article quoting the World Health Organization (WHO) stating that "taking the anti-inflammatory ibuprofen for COVID-19 without consulting a doctor is dangerous," and insisted, "If you have a fever now, take Tylenol."

He explained, "Anti-inflammatory fever reducers such as aspirin, Brufen, and Naxen negatively affect the prognosis of COVID-19," and added, "Tylenol has analgesic and antipyretic effects but no anti-inflammatory action, so it is safe."

However, at the time, former professor Jin criticized this statement, saying, "Not only the source but also the authenticity is unclear," and added, "They say infodemics (a blend of information and epidemics) are scarier than epidemics, so especially at times like this, medical advice should use 'genuine' sources, not 'amateur' ones."

In response, Hong rebutted, "This is a well-founded story reported by major global media such as The New York Times and The Guardian," sparking controversy.

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