Ex-commander's funeral YouTube stream sparks apology from producer

Controversy surrounds former Army Special Warfare Command unit chief Kim Hyun-tae, who conducted a YouTube live broadcast from the funeral of a fellow officer. Despite objections from the bereaved family, Kim proceeded with the stream, drawing criticism. His side has since issued an apology for any discomfort caused.

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If there were those who felt discomfort, we sincerely apologize.

Kim's representatives stated that the decision to broadcast was made by the YouTube channel's producer, not Kim himself. The producer has taken responsibility, apologizing for the distress the broadcast may have caused to those mourning. They emphasized that any criticism should be directed at the producer, not Kim.

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The responsibility for that decision lies with me, not Commander Kim.

The incident occurred at the funeral service at the Armed Forces Medical Command in Seongnam. During the broadcast, Kim, who is currently on trial for charges related to a 1979 incident, criticized the special prosecutor's team. He made light of the 18-year prison sentence sought by prosecutors, even joking about the pronunciation of the number. Kim also speculated about potential military interference to prevent filming, suggesting it was to avoid criticism from a political figure.

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Prosecutors told complete lies in court. I was so annoyed. 'These prosecutors are crazy,' I thought, and I briefly jotted it down in my notebook. I based my final statement on this (memo).

Kim faces a first-instance verdict on the charges on the 27th of next month. The controversy highlights a clash between personal expression and respect for grieving families, particularly in a public forum like YouTube.

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Jokingly, 18 years, your pronunciation isn't good. I thought to myself, 'If you're going to do it, give me 20 years, why 18 with bad pronunciation?'