Lim Young Woong Finally Addresses His DM At First Concert Since Scandal

All it took was a DM for trot singer Lim Young Woong to go from “Mr. Hero” to “Mr. What.”

Lim Young Woong’s “Attitude” In A DM Response Sparks Massive Criticism

After his attitude in an Instagram message exchange sparked massive criticism from Koreans battling the ongoing political unrest, both Lim Young Woong and his management chose radio silence—fueling the frustration even more.

At the first concert since the scandal, though, the singer is reported to have addressed the situation after all. On December 27, 2024 (KST), Lim Young Woong commented that he is a singer and will focus on bringing happiness through singing.

I feel so loved by Hero Generation, and I have learned a lot. I am a person who sings. I tell stories through songs, and I provide joy, comfort, and happiness through my singing. In the future, I will continue to improve and show you a better version of myself. I believe that I can continue working hard because of your constant support and trust. To the Hero Generation family, I sincerely love and appreciate you all. Thank you so much.

— Lim Young Woong

While, on the surface, his comment seems unrelated to his DM scandal, Korean fans believe it was a reiteration of his DM (and so his stance on the matter)—not quite an apology.

• “There is a lot going on in Korea right now that it doesn’t make sense for us to prioritize what Lim Young Woong said… But because he was SO popular, I think I’ll remember for a long time the reason he fell from his fame.”
• “What?“
• “What’s wrong with him? He’s basically repeating what he said in the DMs. He’s ‘a person who sings’ and so not a politician. Therefore, he doesn’t care… It’s that logic. Why does he keep bringing up his profession? If he doesn’t want to publicly express his views, he doesn’t have to, but because he keeps linking it to his job. No wonder people don’t understand.”
• “I dislike him.”
• “What a f*cking loser.”