Viewers initially had an issue with “when” the trip took place.
1 hour ago
Actress Yang Mi Ra has shared her stance on the controversy surrounding a video of her trip to Japan, uploaded around March 1, 2026 (Korean Independence Movement Day).
Actress Yang Mi Ra | @yangmeera/Instagram
On March 3, Yang Mi Ra stated, “Since yesterday, many people seem to have been worried or misunderstood the situation after seeing my photo and name in articles,” addressing the controversy.
| @yangmeera/Instagram
I simply filmed the content in early February, and it’s not even my channel. So I don’t understand why my photo is being used as the main image and why I’ve become the person at fault. It’s been hard to process this sudden situation.
— Yang Mi Ra
The actress added, “Everything was shocking and upsetting, but with so many articles pouring out, there was nothing I could do. I realized that something like this can happen even when you’ve done nothing. I felt so wronged and suffocated, but I thought I’d get sick if I didn’t say something, so I’m gathering the courage to speak up.”
On February 28, fellow actress Ji So Yeon uploaded the video in question featuring Yang Mi Ra to her YouTube channel. However, netizens criticized the timing, saying it was inappropriate to post the video just one day before the March 1 national holiday.
Actresses Ji So Yeon (left) and Yang Mi Ra (right) on their trip. | @yangmeera/Instagram
Following the backlash, Ji So Yeon apologized, explaining, “The video was content documenting a trip taken on February 11, but it was my mistake for not thinking carefully enough about the significance of the timing of the upload.”
| Ji So Yeon’s YouTube
Hello, this is Ji So Yeon.
I am taking the many opinions sent regarding the Japan travel video uploaded at the end of February very seriously.
The video documented a trip taken on February 11. However, it was my fault for not thinking deeply enough about the significance of the timing of the upload. I sincerely apologize for not reviewing it more carefully.
Although it was a video recording my personal daily life, regardless of my intentions, I take full responsibility for the discomfort and disappointment caused by the timing of the post. I apologize once again.
I also feel heavy-hearted that criticism has extended to Mira unnie, who traveled with me. The decision regarding the upload schedule and its release was entirely mine. Mira unnie, who accompanied me, was not aware of any aspects related to this matter. I deeply apologize to her as well and sincerely hope she will not be hurt because of this.
Through this incident, I have come to realize the importance of acting more carefully and responsibly. In the future, I will more thoroughly consider the social context and timing in all stages of planning and publishing content.
I will humbly accept the feedback that has been sent.
Thank you.
— Ji So Yeon
The video has since been set to private.