Lim Ji Yeon Breaks Silence on Backlash Over Cheering for Jung Woo Sung at Blue Dragon Awards

Actress Lim Ji Yeon has addressed the criticism she faced after showing public support for actor Jung Woo Sung during the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards. The incident, which occurred in November last year, gained widespread attention due to Jung Woo Sung’s involvement in a controversy surrounding his extramarital child.

Reflecting on the Incident

On January 23, Lim Ji Yeon spoke candidly during an interview at a café in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, about her recent drama, The Tale of Lady Ok, and the aftermath of the awards night. She shared her thoughts on the brief but polarizing moment when she clapped for Jung Woo Sung after his public apology.

"It was such a brief moment, so it's hard to say whether it was right or wrong to react that way," Lim Ji Yeon explained. She added, "I didn’t anticipate the public’s reaction. At the time, I was also cautious because The Tale of Lady Ok was airing."

Her reaction stood out during Jung Woo Sung’s heartfelt apology, where he acknowledged the controversy surrounding his relationship with model Moon Ga Bi and their child. In contrast, actress Hye Ri, seated nearby, remained expressionless, sparking comparisons and criticism online.

Jung Woo Sung’s Controversy

Jung Woo Sung, a highly regarded actor and co-founder of Artist Company, returned to the public eye at the Blue Dragon Film Awards amid scrutiny. The controversy began when it was revealed that Moon Ga Bi, a model he had been close to since 2022, was pregnant with his child.

During his speech, Jung Woo Sung directly addressed the issue, stating, "I apologize for causing concern and disappointment to all those who have given me love and support. I will bear all the criticism, and as a father, I will take full responsibility for my son."

Lim Ji Yeon’s decision to cheer for him during this emotional moment was interpreted by some as inappropriate, considering the sensitive nature of the situation. Critics pointed out her affiliation with Artist Company, which Jung Woo Sung co-founded with Lee Jung Jae, suggesting it might have influenced her reaction.

Addressing the Backlash

Lim Ji Yeon has been navigating public scrutiny since the incident. While some defended her as showing empathy for a colleague, others viewed her actions as misjudged. Her agency, Artist Company, has yet to release an official statement regarding the matter.

As the actress moves forward, she continues to focus on her career, recently wrapping up her role in The Tale of Lady Ok, which has been praised for its strong performances and gripping storytelling. Despite the criticism, Lim Ji Yeon remains one of South Korea's most talented and beloved actresses.