Hong Seok Cheon Speaks Out After Receiving Malicious Comments For Grieving Late Volleyball Player Kim In Hyuk
Content Warning
TV personality Hong Seok Cheon recently posted a message on his Instagram mourning the sudden death of professional volleyball player Kim In Hyuk. On February 5, Hong posted a long message online along with a screen shot from the movie, Green Book.
The movie ‘Green Book’ is a film that shows the tough process of a black artist fighting against discrimination. People say we are now a developed country, but how far have we really come in terms of recognizing human rights and discrimination? It’s really sad that no one seems to want to raise their voices about these types of issues.
People are too busy thinking about their own realities weighing down on their hearts like the season of politics, the season of the Olympics, the season of epidemics. In a time where it’s hard to voice your opinions, I couldn’t protect my younger brother due to the cowardliness. Every day in this land in 2022, people attack another person to death because of their differences. Where should I stand? I’m powerless.
However, netizens began to leave malicious comments on his grieving post and related articles. Hong took to Instagram once again to speak out about this matter.
I have something to say to the malicious commenters. Do these malicious commenters have no understanding of the written word? What kind of outing and blasphemy is this? Being different doesn’t equate to being gay. I’m talking about the pain that In hyuk had to endure due to the malicious comments he received just because he expressed himself in a different way from what people think are normal male volleyball players. I’ve been enduring hate comments for the past 22 years since I came out, but I am not going to hold back now. Those who write malicious comments are murderers. I can’t stand it anymore. Stop hurting the deceased and the family. I am warning you.
If you don’t know how hard In hyuk had it or what he has gone through, then keep your mouth shut. I will remember how many people have died from the blade that started at your fingertips. Just because there isn’t a system to penalize you, it’s not okay to point your fingers at me. There will be a day when the blade will stab you. I will say it again, you malicious commenters are murderers.
Kim In Hyuk was found dead at his home around 3 PM on February 4. Police tentatively concluded that there was no suspicion of murder. He also voiced out about the pain caused by malicious comments through social media last year.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or has had self-harming thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out to your local confidential support for people in distress or to call the Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress as well as prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. Call 1-800-273-8255 for help.
