[Exclusive] Baek Jong-won to Take Legal Action Against ‘Broadcast Power Abuse’ Allegations, Preparing Defamation Lawsuit Against Director Kim Jae-hwan
[OSEN = Reporter Yeon Hwi-seon] Baek Jong-won, the CEO of The Born Korea, is preparing to file a defamation lawsuit against director Kim Jae-hwan of ‘Studio Ojena’ for alleging ‘broadcast power abuse’.
According to OSEN’s report on the 16th, CEO Baek and The Born Korea are preparing a defamation lawsuit against YouTube channel ‘Studio Ojena’ (abbreviated as Ojena) and director Kim Jae-hwan for spreading false information. Baek has decided not to remain silent as the so-called ‘broadcast power abuse’ allegations against him have crossed the line.
Director Kim Jae-hwan, a former MBC educational PD turned filmmaker, has been acclaimed for food documentaries like ‘True Taste Show’. Recently, he has been criticizing Baek Jong-won and The Born Korea on the YouTube channel ‘Ojena’.
The controversy began with various issues surrounding The Born Korea, especially its operation of multiple franchise brands and its emphasis on coexistence with franchisees. These issues attracted significant attention, and related videos have surpassed one million views, resonating with many netizens.
Despite Baek’s apologies and the unveiling of improvement plans by The Born Korea, the criticism continued. Notably, director Kim strongly raised the ‘broadcast power abuse’ allegations against Baek’s past broadcast activities. In a video released on the morning of the 13th, Kim claimed that “Baek Jong-won prevented a professor’s appearance using his relationship with a PD” and “blocked singer Kim Ho-joong’s appearance on SBS,” drawing attention.
However, Baek Jong-won denied these allegations to OSEN, stating, “When a PD asked if I get along with a certain guest, I might respond with ‘I’m not sure.’ Blocking appearances is something even the president of a broadcasting company can’t do,” emphasizing that the claims were false. A public broadcaster PD who has worked with Baek for several years also defended him to OSEN, saying that while Baek actively gives opinions like a director, he does not engage in ‘power abuse.’
Moreover, The Born Korea has decided to proceed with a defamation lawsuit, believing that ‘Ojena’ and director Kim conducted unauthorized recordings during conversations with Baek and spread false information. An investigation into those involved is expected to accompany the lawsuit proceedings.
/ monamie@osen.co.kr