On August 12, Ha Young took to her personal Instagram account to share a handwritten letter apologizing for the recent controversy. Read the full post below:
This is Ha Young.
First and foremost, I bow my head in apology for the disappointment and pain I have caused due to issues related to my great-grandfather. Recently, as I learned of the past actions of my great-grandfather Ahn Sang Ho, I have been reflecting on my family’s history with a heavy heart.
Until now, I had only known about my great-grandfather’s life in fragments, based on stories passed down through my family. Shamefully, I spoke of him in various settings as if he were a source of family pride, while remaining in such a state of ignorance.
Through this incident, I went through the process of looking up relevant materials myself and learned of my great-grandfather’s pro-Japanese activities. I deeply regret that I spoke of my family history so lightly without properly understanding the painful history of our country during the Japanese colonial period.
Furthermore, when the controversy first arose, I myself did not know the exact facts, which led to the agency releasing a statement claiming the reports were “groundless.” I believe it was my own shortcoming that allowed such an incorrect statement to be delivered without sufficient verification. I sincerely apologize for the greater confusion and wound this has caused.
I also apologize repeatedly for the delay in expressing my position, as I was deeply troubled and struggled with how to convey my sincere apologies given the gravity of the situation.
I realize that the fact that I was unaware of these things cannot be an excuse to ignore or treat that history lightly. I accept those errors with a heavy heart and, as a descendant, I offer my sincere apologies. I feel even more remorseful for causing trouble due to my shortcomings during a time leading up to National Liberation Day.
I will keep this incident deep in my heart. I will properly examine my family’s history and that era, and I will adopt a more cautious attitude toward history in the future. Furthermore, I will study our history in depth and do my utmost to serve with respect for the independence activists and everyone who dedicated themselves to the liberation and well-being of our country. I will prove this not just with words but with actions.
Once again, I sincerely apologize to everyone who has been worried by this.
Sincerely,
Ha Young
Ha Young recently became embroiled in controversy after it was confirmed that her great-grandfather Ahn Sang Ho was listed as a council member of a pro-Japanese organization in 1916.