'Scary' dialect sparks controversy, Geoje City issues official statement

The city of Geoje has issued an official statement refuting claims that a dialect word used by K-pop group Lsène member Won-i carries political connotations. The controversy erupted after Won-i, who is from Geoje, used the phrase 'museopno' in a YouTube content video.

Geoje City clarified that 'museopno' is a common, everyday dialectal expression used in the Gyeongnam region. The city emphasized that interpreting the phrase as having specific political intentions is inappropriate. They acknowledged the diverse opinions arising from the content but urged for mature communication, asking the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and excessive criticism that could harm the individuals involved.

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The expression is a dialect and colloquial expression commonly used in the Gyeongnam region, and it is not appropriate to interpret it as an expression with a specific political intention.

The debate intensified when former Justice Party leader Cho Kuk sided with the criticism, suggesting the phrase was linked to the online community 'Ilbe'. However, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, countered this, defending the idol, stating she was simply using her hometown dialect. The issue even prompted complaints to the Geoje City government.

Lsène was appointed as an honorary ambassador for Geoje in May. The city highlighted Won-i's consistent efforts to promote her hometown through YouTube content, showcasing Geoje's dialect and scenery, and noted her popularity for her down-to-earth and sincere image. The city's social media post regarding the matter garnered significant attention, with numerous comments.

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There are diverse opinions being raised regarding the expression 'museopno' by member Won-i in the YouTube content of Lsène, a promotional ambassador group for Geoje City.