US Reporter Slammed for Asking Squid Game Star a Silly Question

Fans of the South Korean entertainment scene would’ve known Lee Jung Jae long before his role in Squid Game.

This includes Chief of Staff, the South Korean remake of the American hit TV series, WireTap and Along With The Gods: The Last 49 Days as King Yeomra.

Yes, it’s safe to say that even before Lee broke into American media, he was a very well-known star.

Unfortunately, not everyone caught the memo and one reporter is now under fire online for not doing her research well.

A “Silly” Question

Lee was attending the LACMA Art+Film Gala to promote Squid Game when he was accosted by a reporter from Extra, Katie Krause.

Among the various questions she asked towards the actor and director, one of it was:

“I’m sure you can’t leave the house anymore without people recognizing you. What has been the biggest life change for you since the series came out?”

Lee didn’t take offence to the question and instead talked about how, especially in the United States, he is recognised when he was out and about.

“When I would go to restaurants, out on the streets, I get recognized by so many people. Sometimes, when they are staring at me, I get startled and think, ‘Why are they looking at me like that?

“But then when our eyes meet, they would instantly talk about Squid Game. Those are the moments when I truly feel like we really did make it big.”

Netizens Took Offence On His Behalf

Netizens, however, couldn’t tolerate the “silly” question.

The top comment on their YouTube video pointed out that Lee has been a top actor in South Korea since the 90s, and said he’s the equivalent of Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise in South Korea.

Another thought it was “typical” of American media to think that if an actor makes it big in America, it’s the first time in their lives.

Others pointed out that she had to be corrected by the director for not knowing her figures, and felt embarrassed on her behalf for her lack of research.

Other than lambasting the reporter for her lack of preparedness, another overarching sentiment was awe at how the top star handled the rude question gracefully.

A small part of the comment section was also dedicated to the translator, who did a great job in this interview.

One thing for sure, this interview might’ve led to Lee gaining even more international fans.

You can watch the interview in full here.

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Feature Image: YouTube (extra TV)