On September 16, Sunye shared a photo on his social media in mourning for the death of Charlie Kirk, who was hit to death during a debate at Utah Valley University on September 10. Next to the post, he included a biblical passage of 1 Giovanni 4: 9-10, expressing his faith and his message of divine love:
“9 This is the way in which God showed his love between us: he sent his only and only son in the world that we could live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but who loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice of the expiatory for our sins. (1 John 4: 9-10)”
However, the post quickly attracted attention due to Kirk’s controversial legacy. As an important conservative figure in the United States, Kirk was known for his frank support for Donald Trump and his association with the far -right policy. Usa Turning Point has often been criticized for the promotion of divisive rhetoric and Kirk himself has been accused of having spread disinformation on various political and social issues.
The tribute was welcomed with conflicting reactions, in particular among the Netizen Koreans who are not familiar with Kirk’s wider reputation. Some wondered if Sunye was aware of his political position, while others expressed disappointment:
“Why should he publish something like that? Do you also know who he is?”
“He should have done further research before publishing.”
After the repercussions intensified, Sunye has eliminated the place without emitting a public declaration, further fueling speculation and online debate. Many have interpreted the silent deletion as a recognition of the dispute.
While some fans have defended his right to express condolences as a Christian, others have argued that public figures must be more cautious when they share gifts, in particular involving politically accused individuals.
This accident aroused a wider conversation on the intersection between faith, global policy and influence of celebrities, in particular since Korean entertainers are increasingly committed to international topics.
Sunye has not yet commented further.
Sources: my daily entertainment, born
