Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin’s When the Phone Rings has issued an apology for the recent controversy surrounding the mockery of sign language.

On November 29th, the drama’s production team released a statement on the viewer’s board addressing the issue. The statement began by saying, “We take the criticism about the improper handling of sign language very seriously, especially as it led to the mockery of the Deaf community and Korean sign language.”

They went on to clarify, “The drama’s theme centers around ‘communication’ between people, and there was absolutely no intention to mock or belittle sign language, which is a vital communication tool for the Deaf community.”

However, the production team admitted, “We humbly acknowledge that we did not give enough attention to the struggles of the Deaf community and the importance of Korean sign language. We will ensure that such mistakes do not happen again in the future.”

The statement also highlighted the role of sign language in the drama, saying, “Sign language plays a crucial part in the relationship between the two main characters as they learn to communicate with each other. Through their journey, we want to show the true value of sign language as an important tool that connects people.”

The production team concluded by asking for viewers' continued support, saying, “We hope you will keep watching the drama and point out any shortcomings you notice.”

Earlier, in the first episode of When the Phone Rings, which aired on November 22nd, a mistake occurred when sign language interpreter Hong Hee Joo (played by Chae Soo Bin) mistakenly used the sign for "mountain" while trying to interpret "landslide" due to a broadcast error.

This led to the sign being misunderstood as a finger gesture commonly seen as offensive, sparking backlash.

After the episode aired, a viewer posted a complaint on the viewer’s board, asking for an apology for mocking sign language.

The viewer explained that the sign for "mountain" is different from the offensive gesture and that using it in this context was hurtful to the Deaf community, as it has been used as a joke by hearing people.

The post described this as an act of discrimination and mockery, calling for a more respectful approach.

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Actress Kang Ye Won got emotional as she opened up about why she took a break from broadcasting and why she’s finally giving love a chance.

On the March 3 episode of tvN STORY’s Can I Love Now?, Kang Ye Won made her debut as a new participant looking for romance.

During the broadcast, she revealed that negative online comments had deeply affected her. "I used to cry all the time reading comments. I get hurt easily. What might be a small wound for others feels like a huge blow to me," she shared, expressing the stress she faced from malicious remarks.

She also admitted that at one point, she wanted to leave everything behind. "I kept thinking, ‘How long do I have to keep working this hard?’ and it became overwhelming."

She added, "At one point, I thought, ‘I should just quit everything and move to the countryside,’ and that idea actually gave me peace," she confessed.

When it came to dating, Kang Ye Won shared that she had always been content watching others fall in love.

"It never worked out for me. I wasn’t the type to ask for introductions either. I just found comfort in living as an observer. Maybe it’s my fate. I’m fearful, and I lack courage. If I feel like someone might hurt me, I block them out from the start," she admitted.

However, the actress revealed that she ultimately joined Can I Love Now? for her father. "My dad was born in 1943. He had me late in life, and his health isn’t great."

She added, "I realized that if I continue living alone like this, I won’t be able to give my parents any hope until the moment they pass away," she said with tears in her eyes. "My perspective on life has changed. I no longer think just about myself, but about my parents."

Kang Ye Won’s heartfelt confession touched many viewers, leaving fans rooting for her to find happiness.

Source: [1]