Gong Hyung-jin faces backlash over rude hosting after telling Cha Ji-yeon to bow again and joking she would hit him

Actor Gong Hyung-jin (57) has been embroiled in a controversy over his attitude due to rude hosting at a formal event.

Gong took the stage alongside Cha Ji-yeon as an interim host for the special performance of the "Korea East Broadcasting System 70th Anniversary Homecoming Day," held on the 17th at Hanyang University in Seongdong-gu, Seoul.

On stage, Cha bowed her head toward Gong and respectfully greeted him, saying, "Hello, senior." However, Gong said, "Since you are a junior, greet me again." In response, Cha Jbowed her head once more to greet him.

Gong asked, "It is such an honorable day like today. Amen, Hallelujah. Aren't you very happy to be attending?" Cha clenched her fist and said, "Amen." Seeing this, Gong laughed and said, "Are you about to hit me in a moment?" Cha said, "No," and moved the situation along.

Gong's inappropriate remarks continued afterward. Looking at Cha's name and photo on the screen behind the stage, he said, "Why is my photo not there? I am a much more senior person than this person." To this, Cha apologized, saying, "I'm sorry," and Gong Hyung-jin replied, "Because you are a major star." Cha apologized again, saying, "No. I'm sorry."

When Cha Ji-yeon began introducing the next stage by saying, "Now, as the sun is setting slowly," Gong Hyung-jin pointed out, "Why are you acting?" When Cha looked flustered and said, "I am originally like this," Gong Hyung-jin said, "Just do it as usual."

Afterward, Gong interrupted Cha's words in the middle and said, "This was originally my line, but she did it. But since Cha is the protagonist today, I will let it go." Cha waved her hand dismissively and said, "No. I am not the protagonist."

One of Cha's fans stated on Instagram on the 18th, "I felt precarious, uncomfortable, displeased, and upset throughout the viewing."

Netizens showed critical reactions, saying, "Even if the two are close, it is inappropriate to call each other 'this person' or 'that person' at a formal event," "It is uncomfortable to watch," and "Gong Hyung-jin appears to lack the qualifications as an MC."