Actress Go So-young has sparked public controversy after comments perceived as flaunting her enormous real estate wealth, reigniting criticism of celebrities who openly display astronomical assets during a time of economic hardship.
The issue arose from a recent video on Go So-young’s YouTube channel, in which she was seen walking through Hannam-dong and pointing at a building while saying: “Our building is doing well. It’s so cute. Isn’t it the cutest here? It has a really European design. Hello, my filial son.” The building in question is owned by her husband, actor Jang Dong-gun.
According to reports, Jang purchased the property in June 2011 for around KRW 12.6 billion, financed in part with a KRW 4 billion loan. The current estimated value of the building is KRW 30 billion, which represents a capital gain of approximately KRW 17.4 billion over 14 years. The couple is also known to own other properties in Seoul, including areas such as Seongdong-gu and Cheongdam-dong.
However, the remarks triggered widespread backlash online. Many netizens criticized the timing and tone of the comments, claiming that referring to real estate profits as a “branch I am” he felt numb to the rising cost of living and economic stagnation. Comments accusing Go of being “out of this world” AND “lack of awareness” followed, and the controversial segment was later deleted from the video.
Go So-young isn’t the only celebrity to face criticism. Public sentiment has become increasingly skeptical of entertainers who openly display their extreme wealth through television programs and YouTube content. Singer Kim Jong-kook previously revealed that he purchased a KRW6.2 billion apartment in Nonhyeon-dong entirely in cash. Broadcaster Park Soo-hong showed off the interiors of her KRW7.05 billion Apgujeong apartment, while actress Lee Jung-hyun drew similar criticism after revealing a custom-built kitchen reportedly costing tens of millions of won.
Critics argue that such demonstrations amplify feelings of relative deprivation, especially as many ordinary citizens struggle to afford even a modest home in Seoul despite having permanent jobs. Some also warn that repeated media coverage of celebrity real estate profits may encourage speculative investment behavior.
While celebrity wealth is undeniably the result of personal success and effort, public opinion suggests that excessive displays of luxury, largely enabled by public support, can quickly become a source of resentment. Observers note that, in today’s economic climate, conspicuous wealth may no longer be admired but instead become a catalyst for criticism and social unease.
Sources: Daum
