The controversy surrounding the regional disrespect on the YouTube channel ‘Pisik University’ has been intensifying for the second day due to the reckless remarks by comedians Lee Yong-joo, Kim Min-soo, and Jung Jae-hyeong, as well as their attitude of ‘strong-weak-weak-strong.’ Furthermore, the head of the Yeongyang Branch of the Korea Electric Power Corporation expressed discomfort and criticism, adding fuel to the heated debate.
Previously, on the 11th, a video titled ‘Visited the smallest city in Gyeongsang-do, Yeongyang [Gyeongbuk Yeongyang]’ was posted on the ‘Pisik University’ YouTube channel. The video aimed to introduce Yeongyang-gun in Gyeongsangbuk-do, but the three comedians did not hesitate to make disrespectful remarks about the region, causing frowns. Kim Min-soo looked at the village names written at a bus stop and commented, “Have you ever heard of such a region? Isn’t this place in China?” Lee Yong-joo jokingly said, “I thought this was a hospital for a moment.”
Not only were there disrespectful remarks about the region, but Lee Yong-joo’s comment about young people in Yeongyang constantly uploading photos on Instagram and roaming around after hearing that they were there has stirred controversy. Even when they were leaving Yeongyang, they expressed regret by saying, “We wanted to try various things in Yeongyang.” Jung Jae-hyeong shared his empathy, saying, “We really put in a lot of effort. You all know, we have a 3 million subscribers on YouTube. I really felt the limits as a comedian. Indeed, I’m just a tiny germ in nature.” He also rudely told Kim Min-soo, who mentioned dopamine addiction, that there are almost no people using smartphones in the city and suggest they go work for KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation) if they feel overly addicted to their phones.
Kim Min-soo also agreed with his derogatory remarks, saying, “Then maybe the brain will return to its natural state.”
Amid backlash from netizens, the head of the Yeongyang Branch of the Korea Electric Power Corporation also made a statement. Although he pointed out the discomfort caused by the video, he maintained a polite tone and mentioned that the broadcast was interesting.
Criticism from netizens has been pouring in, highlighting the disappointment felt by public servants who work in similar local government positions as the individuals in the video. Some expressed sadness and frustration, pointing out the essential role of local public servants in running local administrations despite the lack of recognition they receive.
Warning against the team of ‘Pisik University’ for crossing the line, the public made it clear that such disrespectful behavior will not be easily forgotten. Despite this, the ‘Pisik University’ team remains silent, losing 10,000 subscribers in a day from their 3.18 million followers, indicating that the negative sentiment is unlikely to dissipate easily.