Webtoon Association on Kian84 Controversy: "Criticism is Possible, but Demanding Artist's Expulsion is Fascism"

On the afternoon of the 19th, members of the Basic Income Party's Gender Politics Special Committee and the Cartoon Industry Sexual Violence Countermeasures Committee held a press conference in front of the Naver Webtoon headquarters in Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, demanding the suspension of the serialization of the webtoon "Bokhakwang" by Kian84. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Bong-ju] As controversy over webtoon artist Kian84's comic 'Bokhakwang' intensifies, the Webtoon Association, a nonprofit organization, has raised issues regarding the claims made by several groups.

On the 24th, the Webtoon Association issued a statement saying, "We firmly oppose violent demands such as the expulsion of the artist that go beyond criticism of the artist and the work, and we condemn the overreach of the 'Manhwagye Sexual Violence Countermeasure Committee,' which lacks representation in the comic industry."

The Webtoon Association stated, "We seriously and deeply acknowledge and empathize with any issues raised and criticisms made by readers based on allegations of misogyny, and derogation and mockery targeting social minorities including sexual minorities, people with disabilities, and migrant workers." However, they added, "We firmly oppose and reject any physical coercion aimed at forcing the suspension of serialization or expulsion of artist Kian84 beyond readers' criticism, suggestions, simple claims, and opinions regarding the artist and the work."

They continued, "In all areas of popular arts, including webtoons, all unreasonable attempts and coercion that infringe upon and damage freedom of creation and expression must be eradicated. We ask the Webtoon Association, related webtoon organizations, other popular art groups, artists, and workers to join together in this cause."

The Webtoon Association also emphasized, "Criticism of the artist and the work is entirely possible, but demands for artist expulsion and suspension of serialization are fascism," and "We firmly oppose coercion that exceeds the bounds of criticism and opinion."

Earlier, when controversy arose over the webtoon 'Bokhakwang' containing misogynistic content, Kian84 said, "I should have thought more and worked harder on the manuscript, and I sincerely apologize to the readers for causing discomfort," adding, "I am truly sorry for causing concern due to inappropriate depictions in the work."

However, on the 19th, several groups including the Basic Income Party's Gender Politics Special Committee, the Manhwagye Sexual Violence Countermeasure Committee, and UnivFemi held a press conference in front of Naver Webtoon headquarters, demanding the suspension of Kian84's work serialization, continuing the controversy.

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