In an era of high prices, where people already feel the pressure of gifts at weddings, Kim Jong-kook’s public comment about the modest contribution of Jonathan, born in 2000 and young enough to be his grandson, was deemed inappropriate.
On the November 3 episode of SBS variety show “Running Man,” Yoo Jae-suk mentioned how Kim Jong-kook was chatting with Jonathan. Kim Jong-kook responded: “(Jonathan) didn’t give much money for the wedding and ate a lot.”
Although intended as a joke, many viewers found it uncomfortable rather than funny. Many expressed discomfort, pointing out that it wasn’t even the groom Jo Se-ho who spent a large sum on wedding expenses, but rather Kim Jong-kook who mocked young Jonathan’s gift.
Recent data from Kakao Pay showed that the average wedding gift amount for 20-year-olds is around 60,000 won. While celebrities may earn more, such a blunt criticism of the amount of a young person’s wedding gift on a show may have crossed the line.
Additionally, the family-friendly nature of “Running Man” raises concerns about the casual use of terms like “ate f*cking lot.” “Running Man” was often criticized for mistreatment, swearing or critical gags between members. This incident raises the question of whether their “all-in-good” style of teasing may have finally crossed the line.
Source: Daum
