
Controversial Content Surrounding YouTuber Daeddoonggwa's Death Sparks Outrage
As tributes pour in for the late YouTuber Daeddoonggwa (real name Na Dong-hyun, age 47), a wave of criticism is rising against certain YouTubers for disseminating disrespectful content that allegedly damages the deceased's reputation.
On June 6th, the right-leaning YouTube channel 'Garo Sero Institute' (GSI) released a video titled 'Daeddoonggwa Death Mystery (Lee Jae-myung, Yum Yum).' In this video, GSI's CEO Kim Se-ui insinuated a political conspiracy by linking the late YouTuber to former President Lee Jae-myung, claiming, "Strangely, many people close to Lee Jae-myung are found dead." The thumbnail, featuring 'Shocking Horror' and juxtaposing Daeddoonggwa's photo with those of Lee Jae-myung and his ex-wife Yum Yum, aimed to grab attention.
Kim Se-ui further questioned the cause of death, suggesting it might not have been illness. He pointed to Daeddoonggwa's recent participation in broadcasts and fashion events, along with his high earnings as a prominent YouTuber, stating, "It's hard to accept that he couldn't receive hospital treatment." He also raised suspicions about the circumstances of death, remarking, "It's strange that an acquaintance reported him to the police for not showing up to a meeting spot."
However, the video has been inundated with critical comments from viewers, including phrases like "Are you trying to link the deceased like this?", "Don't exploit his death for views," and "There are boundaries even in the face of death."
This is not the only instance of 'overstepping' content. YouTuber Yongho-su (real name Park Chan-woo), who had past conflicts with Daeddoonggwa during broadcasts, posted a mocking message on his SNS on June 6th, the day his death was announced: "Waaah divorce. Rest in peace, Uncle Daeddoonggwa." He further subjected the deceased to personal attacks, calling him "arrogant" and likening his departure to that of singer Wheesung, even adding threatening remarks like "I will make you shed tears of blood."
Additionally, sensational 'clickbait content' with provocative captions is spreading across YouTube Shorts and social media platforms. Netizens are expressing shock and outrage at the actions of some YouTubers who are turning a person's death into content for the sake of clicks.
Daeddoonggwa was found deceased at his residence in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, on June 6th. Police found no suicide note at the scene and have found no signs of external intrusion or criminal activity, with an autopsy planned to determine the exact cause of death. His wake has been set up at the Konkuk University Hospital Funeral Hall, with his sister and ex-wife Yum Yum listed as chief mourners. Daeddoonggwa and Yum Yum married in 2015 and divorced in 2023. Yum Yum's son is also reportedly keeping vigil at the wake.
Daeddoonggwa, whose real name is Na Dong-hyun, was born in 1977 and began his YouTube career in 2011, establishing himself as a pioneer among South Korean gaming YouTubers and internet broadcasters. His content expanded beyond game streaming to include various talk shows and experimental formats, attracting a wide audience. He married fellow YouTuber Yum Yum in 2015, but they announced their divorce in 2023.