Translator Hwang Seok-hee has effectively shut down his personal social media.
As of the 31st, Hwang’s Instagram shows only a statement he posted the day before. All other posts have been set to private. Comments are disabled on the statement as well.
Until now, Hwang had actively communicated with the public on social media. He promoted projects he translated and weighed in on social issues. He also shared everyday moments and posts expressing affection for his child.
The apparent shutdown of his social media accounts appears to have followed reports of alleged sex crimes. On March 30, Dispatch reported that translator Hwang Seok-hee had been indicted twice in the past on sex crime charges and received suspended sentences in both cases.
After the report, Hwang posted on his account that he is “currently reviewing the matter with a lawyer,” adding that he will “seek corrections or take action if the report includes any inaccuracies, unverified claims, or language beyond the scope of legal judgment.”
Hwang’s recent work includes the currently released "Project Hail Mary." The film surpassed 1 million admissions nationwide in 11 days, marking the strongest performance among foreign releases this year.
In the wake of the allegations, some moviegoers are calling for a boycott. On social media and online communities, posts are circulating from users saying they don’t want to watch films translated by Hwang.
The ripple effect may reach "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," the fourth installment in the "Spider-Man" series slated for a July release. Hwang handled the translation for parts 1 through 3. Regarding the new film, the PR company said, “We have nothing to share, as we haven’t received any information about the translation work.”
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)