Korean-Japanese singer-entertainer Kangnam has issued an apology for his disparaging remarks to TV personality Sam Okyere about country Ghana and Nine Muses member Kyungri.
Kangnam has been receiving criticisms from Korean and foreign netizens for belittling Ghana in a recent episode of the Korean reality TV show "Mom's Diary-My Ugly Duckling" in which he and singer Tony An visited the home of Ghana native Okyere.
During the show, Kangnam asked Okyere if they have TVs, buildings and clubs in Ghana, portraying the country as uncivilized and undeveloped.
Last August, during an online broadcast, Kangnam told Kyungri, "I could beat her up to death if you told me to" and "I'm going to hit you someday back in Korea."
Kangnam described his rude remarks as jokes, writing on Instagram, "In trying to be funny on TV, I was too greedy and said things I shouldn't have. I have realized that I caused disappointment and discomfort to many people through my careless words and ignorance and apologized right away to Kyungri and Sam."
He added, "I am still awkward at writing Korean and thought about what to do in case my sincerity did not come through in a message and disappoint people even further, but with the help of an agency staff member, I am writing what I have to say."
Kangnam said, "I want to express my sincerest apologies to Kyungri and Sam once again and I apologize to and am grateful for the viewers who have took me to task for what I have done wrong and taught me better."
"I should have taken responsibility as a broadcaster and shown a discreet side of myself, but I was unable to and I am ashamed and regretful. I will reflect and learn so that I do not make these kind of mistakes again and act and think more carefully. Once again, I am sincerely sorry to everyone who felt uncomfortable through my carelessness."
