'No Mask Controversy' Park Yoochun Explains "Due to Promotional Video Filming"... Repeated Noise After Retirement Reversal

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Eun-young] Singer and actor Park Yoo-chun's side recently explained the controversy over not wearing a mask upon entering Thailand, but it seems that noise surrounding him continues even after his retirement reversal.

On the 7th, Park Yoo-chun's side posted an official statement on their official SNS explaining the report that he did not wear a mask at the airport when entering Thailand.

Park Yoo-chun's side stated, "The photo that was reported was taken during the filming of a VTR for concert promotion during the Thailand schedule," and explained, "After arriving in Thailand, all staff including the artist followed the Thai government guidelines."

They added, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people due to the photo that could easily be misunderstood," and "We will devote more effort to preventing COVID-19 in all upcoming schedules."

Earlier, on the 5th, a video spread on SNS showing Park Yoo-chun greeting a crowd without wearing a mask after entering Thailand on the 2nd to carry out concert and fan signing schedules, causing controversy.

In the problematic video, he greeted the welcoming crowd without wearing a mask and entered the building. People around him, except for him, were wearing masks.

In particular, as entertainment figures have been refraining from overseas schedules and face-to-face performances due to COVID-19, there were criticisms that entering Thailand and holding overseas concerts were inappropriate.

Despite Park Yoo-chun's explanation, some netizens responded, "Was not wearing a mask really an unavoidable choice?" and "Disappointing."

Meanwhile, public opinion is also unfavorable regarding Park Yoo-chun's reversal of his 'retirement from the entertainment industry' declaration and his intention to return to the entertainment industry. Last July, Park was tried for violating the Narcotics Control Act and was sentenced to 10 months in prison with a 2-year probation. When drug use allegations were raised, Park himself announced at a press conference, "If true, I will retire from the entertainment industry," but he has recently resumed activities targeting overseas fans.

Additionally, it was revealed that he has not complied with a court ruling to compensate 50 million won to a sexual assault victim for about a year, causing controversy.

He reportedly delayed compensation saying, "There is only 1 million won in the bank account." In response, netizens questioned, "Under whose name are the profits from fan signings or concerts received?" and "Is he deliberately hiding profits to avoid repaying debts?" sparking controversy once again.

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