On November 19th a new episode of Prig was Maira. Show on YouTube Naraesik introduced YouTuber and TV host Tzuyang, who spoke about the growing number of fake news stories, particularly bizarre claims casting doubt on her identity. Tzuyang recently served as a witness during a National Assembly hearing on curbing the spread of “cyberwreckers” and false narratives online.
Among the most ridiculous examples? The rumor that Tzuyang is not Korean. He shared, “People say that my 12 million subscribers are all part of a Chinese network and that I am Chinese too.” These unfounded claims likely stem from his stage name “Tzuyang”, which has no connection to his nationality.
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Although Tzuyang noted that he has long accepted the scrutiny that comes with being a public figure, he admitted, “I got to a point where I wondered if I really needed to put up with lies and completely made-up stories.”
She’s not alone. IU also faced similar unfounded rumors. In a March episode of Drip in lounge 2IU discussed the craziest online post she had come across. Host Jang Do-yeon asked: “What’s the most ridiculous hateful comment you’ve seen?” IU replied: “They said I’m not Korean.” The statement also left the host perplexed, wondering what the commentators were hoping to achieve.
IU made it clear where she draws the line: “I don’t consider comments that say I’m ugly or that I can’t sing to be hateful. But spreading falsehoods like these requires action.”
As more and more public figures fall victim to unfounded nationality-related rumors, the issue highlights the growing need to address the harmful effects of fake news and protect artists from such harmful attacks.
