Lee Yong-dae Dating Rumors Spark Fan Outcry Over 'My Little Old Boy' Authenticity
Following the dating rumors between badminton star Lee Yong-dae and former April member turned actress Yoon Chae-kyung, a fan of Lee Yong-dae has issued a statement questioning the authenticity of SBS's variety show 'My Little Old Boy' (hereinafter referred to as 'Mom's Diary').
A post titled 'Fan Statement Regarding Lee Yong-dae's Dating Rumors' was uploaded to the Badminton National Team Gallery on the 19th. The fan emphasized that Lee Yong-dae has elevated Korean badminton's status through his long career as a national representative and that his personal life as a father deserves respect.
"From a fan's perspective, my wish for Lee Yong-dae to meet a good person and find happiness has never changed," the statement read. "Regardless of the truth behind the dating rumors, we do not wish for his private life to be excessively invaded or subjected to baseless criticism."
However, the fan pointed out that following the recent dating news, a blind date scene featuring Lee Yong-dae on 'Mom's Diary' has resurfaced, raising doubts about the show's authenticity. "If the dating rumors are false, it is the minimum courtesy to viewers who have trusted and supported Lee Yong-dae for him to clarify through his agency," the fan argued.
Even if the rumors are true, the fan stated, "It would be a cause for celebration if he is spending happy times with a new partner." Nevertheless, the fan added, "As misunderstandings and controversies arise from the conjunction of the dating rumors and past broadcast content, a minimal statement clarifying the truth of the dating rumors is necessary."
Previously, reports surfaced that Lee Yong-dae and Yoon Chae-kyung had been dating for a year. Lee Yong-dae has remained silent, while Yoon Chae-kyung's agency stated, "It is difficult to confirm as it is a personal matter."
The fan's anger stems from comments Lee Yong-dae made during his appearance on 'Mom's Diary' in July: "After breaking up, I wondered if they would date someone who got divorced," and "I thought I couldn't date anyone anymore, but honestly, I've been in a relationship."
If he had been dating Yoon Chae-kyung for a year, his participation in a blind date segment while in a relationship naturally invites questions about the program's authenticity.
Meanwhile, 'Mom's Diary' has faced ongoing controversy regarding its authenticity, as married or legally wedded individuals have continuously appeared on the show.
Korean netizens are reacting to the fan's statement with comments like, "If the broadcast content and reality differ, it's understandable to question it," "Isn't Lee Yong-dae being unfairly treated?" and "What's the truth?"