Ha Young pro-Japanese controversy

The controversy surrounding actress Ha Young has expanded following revelations regarding her family history. The scrutiny began after Ha Young mentioned her family’s four-generation medical lineage on a variety show. Historical records have since linked her great-grandfather, Ahn Sang-ho, to pro-Japanese organizations, including his role as a council member for the Taisho Business Friendship Association, a group that promoted Japanese colonial rule.

Further allegations suggest Ahn supported cultural assimilation policies and was involved in the medical treatment of pro-Japanese figures. Investigations by netizens have also linked her grandfather, Ahn Bu-ho, to Sorokdo National Hospital, where he reportedly worked as a doctor between 1949 and 1954. The facility has a documented history of human rights violations against patients with Hansen’s disease, including unauthorized anatomical dissections, forced abortions, and forced sterilizations.

In response to the backlash, Ha Young issued a handwritten apology, expressing shame for sharing her family history without historical reflection. The controversy has led to professional consequences, including the suspension of her advertisements and the private setting of certain video clips. While SBS has stated they are “fully aware of the matter and are closely monitoring how the situation develops” regarding the upcoming drama ‘The Long Shot Trial’, the incident continues to spark debate in South Korea regarding historical accountability. Meanwhile, some Japanese media outlets have characterized the backlash as “modern-day guilt by association.”

The situation has prompted renewed public discussion regarding the disparate legacies of independence activists and collaborators. Actor Song Il-gook, the great-grandson of independence activist General Kim Jwa-jin, has seen past remarks resurface in light of the controversy. Song previously highlighted the irony that while descendants of pro-Japanese collaborators often maintained stable, well-educated families, the descendants of those who fought for independence frequently faced extreme poverty and instability after sacrificing assets to support the movement.