Seokhee Hwang Faces Sexual Crime Allegations: Past Posts Resurface, "One Day, You Will Inevitably Be Disappointed"

Controversy is spreading online over allegations of a past sexual offense record involving star translator Seokhee Hwang.

On March 30, Dispatch reported that Hwang had committed sexual crimes on three separate occasions in the past. According to the report, he committed acts of molestation and assault against women on the street in 2005, and in 2014, he allegedly committed quasi-rape and illegal filming crimes against one of his students. The outlet explained that he was indicted on charges including indecent assault resulting in injury and quasi-rape, for which he received a suspended prison sentence.

Translator Seokhee Hwang. The Asia Business Daily Database

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As the controversy grew, online users began to revisit posts believed to have been written by Hwang in the past. Of particular note are his statements such as, "Everyone is harmful to some extent. I am not a harmless person either," and, "Do not respect me or make me your mentor. One day, you will inevitably be disappointed." Another shared post reads, "Though my life as a translator may be insignificant, I will succeed doing what I love. Someday, I will translate the world," with many interpreting these remarks in light of the current allegations and drawing connections between his past perspectives and present situation.

Amid these allegations, Hwang issued a statement the same day through his social media account. He said, "I am currently reviewing the matter with my lawyer," and added, "If there are any parts of the reporting that are inaccurate, unverified, or go beyond the scope of legal judgment, I will consider corrections and responses." He has since deleted most of his previous posts and effectively suspended his social media activity.

Meanwhile, Hwang is recognized as one of Korea's leading translators, having worked on numerous box office hits such as 'Deadpool,' 'Spider-Man,' 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' and 'Warm Bodies.'

He has received significant acclaim for his so-called 'transcendent translation' style, which goes beyond literal interpretation to adapt works in a way that resonates with Korean culture. Through appearances on variety shows and the publication of essays, he has also built up widespread public recognition. However, the recent allegations are expected to deal a significant blow to the image he has cultivated, and are likely to have a considerable impact on his future activities.

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