Kim Yeon-kyung on 'Yu Ae-ja's Resignation': "It's Regrettable... Hope She Recovers and Returns Soon"

Yoo Ae-ja "I will take time to restrain myself with a repentant heart" sudden resignation
Kim Yeon-koung "A person who worked hard for volleyball development and promotion"

On the 13th, Kim Yeon-koung posted a message on her Instagram story regarding the resignation of Yoo Ae-ja, former Public Relations Committee Member of the Volleyball Association. Photo by Kim Yeon-koung Instagram capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] Kim Yeon-kyung (33, Shanghai) expressed regret over Yoo Ae-ja, former Vice Chairperson of the Public Relations Committee of the Korea Volleyball Association, who resigned amid controversy over an interview upon returning to Korea.

On the 13th, Kim Yeon-kyung posted on her social media, "I heard the news of Vice Chairperson Yoo Ae-ja's resignation. She is a senior of the national team and has long worked as an association executive to promote and develop volleyball, so I feel saddened."

She added, "I hope she regains her strength and returns soon within a short time."

Earlier, on the 9th, former Vice Chairperson Yoo conducted a press conference for Kim Yeon-kyung, who returned through Incheon International Airport. On that day, Yoo induced an unscheduled interview, forced Kim to express gratitude to President Moon Jae-in, and awkwardly asked about the amount of prize money, causing discomfort to Kim Yeon-kyung.

Apology statement from Yoo Ae-ja, former Public Relations Committee Member of the Korea Volleyball Association.
/Photo by Korea Volleyball Association official website capture

As the press conference video spread online, angry fans posted messages on the Korea Volleyball Association’s bulletin board, leading to a flood of protests.

The Volleyball Association explained, "The host’s straightforward personality was fully exposed. There was no ill intent," and added, "Rather than forcing gratitude to the president, there was a misunderstanding due to the way it was expressed."

Subsequently, on the 12th, former Vice Chairperson Yoo officially apologized through the Korea Volleyball Association and resigned from the Public Relations Vice Chairperson position. She said, "I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing concern to the fans who love and cherish volleyball due to the inconsiderate and forced handling during the women’s volleyball national team’s return interview process."

She continued, "Feeling the heavy responsibility for this incident, I resign from the position of Public Relations Vice Chairperson of the Korea Volleyball Association. I will take time to reflect deeply and restrain myself. I am sorry."

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