Netizen Scrutiny Hits Nation's MC Yoo Jae-suk Amidst Entertainment Industry Scandals

The 'Nation's MC,' Yoo Jae-suk, is unexpectedly finding himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons as recent controversies ripple through the entertainment industry.

What started as whispers of a 'November curse' has escalated, leaving the industry in disarray and now indirectly involving Yoo Jae-suk.

The first instance where Yoo Jae-suk's name was dragged into the fray was during actor Lee Yi-kyung's departure from the variety show 'How Do You Play?' Lee Yi-kyung, citing personal rumors, claimed he was forced to participate in a 'face-slapping' segment by the production team. This led some viewers to speculate that Yoo Jae-suk, as the show's central figure, must have had a hand in the decision.

Although the situation seemed to de-escalate after the production team issued an apology, Yoo Jae-suk's name was pulled into another controversy shortly after. During the '2025 AAA' awards ceremony, Lee Yi-kyung accepted an award and notably mentioned fellow 'How Do You Play?' cast members Haha and Joo Woo-jae, but conspicuously omitted Yoo Jae-suk. This omission fueled theories that Lee Yi-kyung might have been intentionally excluding the 'Nation's MC.'

Further complicating matters, a YouTuber alleged that during discussions about Lee Yi-kyung's departure from 'How Do You Play?', when the production team and Lee Yi-kyung mentioned a decision made by 'higher-ups,' the YouTuber repeatedly questioned if it was Yoo Jae-suk's decision.

Addressing these claims, Yoo Jae-suk's agency stated that Lee Yi-kyung's acceptance speech was not intended to target anyone and expressed regret over the ensuing controversy. Regarding Yoo Jae-suk's involvement, the agency clarified, "He only expressed his regret about the decision, and there was no questioning or inquiry made about whether the departure decision was Yoo Jae-suk's opinion."

Despite these clarifications, Yoo Jae-suk's name continues to be mentioned, often in situations that seem to unfairly target him. Even though former colleagues have repeatedly affirmed in interviews that Yoo Jae-suk does not involve himself in casting or departure decisions, the amalgamation of YouTuber claims and lingering suspicions is casting an unpleasant shadow, much to the dismay of viewers.

Korean netizens are expressing sympathy, with comments like "It seems Yoo Jae-suk is being unfairly blamed again," and "It's upsetting that Yoo Jae-suk's name keeps coming up because of one comment from Lee Yi-kyung." Many are also calling for clarity on who the 'higher-ups' really are.