‘Penthouse 3’ Production Team Addresses Controversy Regarding Park Eun Seok’s Character and Racism Issue
"Penthouse 3" production team set the record straight amid the controversy surrounding Park Eun Seok's new character.
In a report cited by OSEN, a representative from the team cleared the speculations and revealed that the drama has no motive to insult any cultural group.
"There was no intention to make fun or mock a specific race or culture."
"Penthouse 3: War in Life" Slammed for Racism and Cultural Appropriation
To recall, the top rating drama was under fire after being criticized due to cultural appropriation.
It came after Park Eun Seok returned as Logan Lee's twin brother Alex, who has been living for the U.S since his whole family migrated after Min Seol Ah's death.
Based on the drama "Penthouse 3," episode 2 featured the new character with long dreadlocks, face tattoos, and speaking with an African-American accident.
Several netizens and viewers blasted the mega-hit series for mocking African-American culture.
In addition, others pointed out that broadcasting network should take down the post of Alex's character on their official website.
READ MORE: Lee Sang Woo Admits Avoiding Wife Kim So Yeon's Kissing Scenes in 'Penthouse 3'
Park Eun Seok Apologized Over Racism Issue
Immediately after the issue surfaced online, the 37-year-old actor posted his apology over TikTok.
@_____silverstone_____ Please take time to read. ♬ everything sucks - vaultboy
In a lengthy statement, he pointed out that the character's appearance was not to "harm, mock, disrespect or discourage the African American community," adding, "I'd like to apologize to the people who took offense by the character's appearance."
He added that the portrayal was "more admiration of the culture than mockery" and even states that it is a wrong move for character development.
In addition, Park Eun Seok shared his realization that he "should've known better" given that he is also a minority himself.
Lastly, he concluded his official statement by wishing that viewers and fans would give him the benefit of the doubt and for giving him the "opportunity to grow in awareness."
"I hope you have the sincerity in your hearts to give the benefit of the doubt, that Alex's appearance was rather a character approach who admired the culture and wanted to 'be' like, not intentionally portraying mockery.
"Penthouse 3" Spoilers
Amid the "Penthouse 3" controversy, the SBS Friday drama continues to pique the viewer's interest with heart-pounding teasers.
In the recent teaser video, the suspense drama featured thrillings schemes between Shim Su Ryeon (Lee Ji Ah) and her revenge on Joo Dan Tae (Uhm Ki Joon) for killing Logan Lee.
The sneak peek also showed that Joo Dan Tae is getting the upper hand against Cheon Seo Jin, played by Beaksang Arts awards Best Actress Kim So Yeon and his ex-husband, Ha Yoon Chul, portrayed by Yoon Jong Hoon.
On the other hand, it appears that Shim Su Ryeon is doubting Oh Yoon Hee (Eugene) and thinks that she is using Logan Lee's multi-billion assets to start a new life.
"Penthouse 3" episode 3 is set to air on June 18 on SBS.
IN CASE YOU MISSED: 'Penthouse 3' Hailed as Most Buzzworthy Drama Following its Successful Premiere
KDramastars owns this article.
Written by Geca Wills
