Former singer Kim Sang-mi has been embroiled in a dispute over a popular matchmaking program, with Korean netizens pouring out opinions about her decision to join the show originally reserved for “ordinary people.”

Kim showed up on SBS “Jjak” on Wednesday and monopolized the spotlight with a star-like appearance, easily making her stand out among other non-professional participants. Male participants, naturally, fought to steal attention from Kim. 

It was later revealed that Kim was not exactly an ordinary competitor, as she worked as a professional singer named “Banana Girl” in 2008 and has starred in films and musicals.

When her background was disclosed, viewers and online users attacked Kim and producers, saying that she joined the program in order to promote herself.

In a response to the controversy, the program director said it is reverse discrimination to prevent people of various backgrounds like her from participating in the program.

From news report
(knews@heraldcorp.com)