Actress and content creator Hwang Bo Ra has publicly apologized after facing a wave of online backlash for a group macadamia buying video that used a car crash scene as its opening.
On February 11, 2026, Hwang Bo Ra posted a promotional video on his social media accounts to advertise a group purchasing campaign of macadamia nuts. The video begins with her appearing to be driving at night, suddenly letting out a loud scream and reacting as if a serious car accident had just occurred, creating a tense and alarming atmosphere.
After a few seconds of this urgent scene, he abruptly changes tone, smiles at the camera, and asks something like, “Do you want some macadamia?” before introducing the product and highlighting discounts and delivery details, second allkpop.
Many viewers called the concept inappropriate, arguing that car accidents involve real injuries and trauma and should not be used as shock value or a “clickbait” hook for snack promotion.
Critics also pointed out that the crash scene had no clear connection to the product and seemed more like a provocative stunt than an effort to highlight the taste or quality of the nuts. Some commenters described the video as “disturbing” or “uncomfortable,” with questions like “Why link a car crash to a crazy product?”
The backlash intensified because Hwang Bo Ra had previously been caught drunk driving in December 2007, with her blood alcohol level measured at 0.135% and her license subsequently revoked.
Netizens cited this past accident, saying it made the accident-themed advertising seem even more careless and reckless, given that road accidents are often linked to impaired driving.
On February 13, Hwang Bo Ra posted an apology on her social media, saying that she sincerely regretted her lapse of judgment in using the concept of an accident for the group buying video. SBS Star reported.
She wrote that she was sorry to anyone who felt uncomfortable or upset by the content and promised to reflect on her actions so that similar mistakes are not repeated. The video was also deleted from his accounts as the controversy continued in Korean media and entertainment channels.
The incident has brought increased attention to how celebrities and influencers market products on social media, especially when shock, fear or sensitive topics are used to gain attention.
The public response in this case suggests that fans and viewers increasingly expect brands and personalities to be more socially conscious in their advertising, particularly when real-world issues such as road safety are involved, as per chosun.
