Kim Jae-won Speaks Out on Rude Fans at 'The Final Interview' Event

Actor Kim Jae-won has opened up about feeling hurt by the rude behavior of some fans. He said he tries to connect with as many fans as he can at in-person events, but is caught off guard when people respond with visible irritation because he hasn't met their expectations.

Kim Jae-won shared a lengthy message on Nov. 7 through a paid fan communication platform. That same day, he took part in stage greetings for his film "The Final Interview" (Choejong Myeonjeop). In South Korea, stage greetings are events where cast members visit theaters to meet audiences. After meeting fans there, he shared his thoughts candidly.

"I always try to do my best," he wrote. "In the process, for different reasons and because of the situation, I end up missing a few people. When I get to them and they're curt or annoyed, it catches me off guard."

With limited time and on-site conditions, he can't respond to every fan's request. He said the sharp reactions from some people leave him feeling awkward.

"I could choose not to greet people like that, too," he continued. "But I still greet them cheerfully because I believe it's not how they really feel. I tell myself they were just flustered and hurt, and it came out that way."

He also made a point of thanking his supporters. He said fans who cheer him on with good manners far outnumber the others.

"Let's be a little considerate and do our best for each other," he wrote. His message was that actors and fans should treat each other with respect, rather than fans making one-sided demands about fan service.

"The Final Interview" opened in theaters on Nov. 4. The film follows six job applicants gathered for a final interview. Each one finds a mysterious envelope holding a damaging secret, and the group falls into chaos as they start to suspect one another.

Director Kim Jung-hoon and actors Cho Yi-hyun and Bae Kang-hee joined Kim Jae-won at the stage greetings on Nov. 7.

For stars on a promotion schedule, stage greetings have become one of the closest points of contact with fans. Kim Jae-won's post shows how fast that closeness can turn into pressure on both sides when expectations run high and time runs short.