Kang Ye-won Addresses Conflict Rumors with FreeZia: "We Support Each Other"

Actress Kang Ye-won has directly addressed and dismissed various speculations regarding her alleged conflict and estrangement from creator FreeZia, with whom she worked in the past.

In a video released on her YouTube channel 'Kang Ye-won' on the 2nd, Kang Ye-won candidly shared her feelings regarding the termination of her exclusive contract with FreeZia and their subsequent relationship.

Kang Ye-won previously served as the co-CEO of the entertainment agency Hyowon CNC, where she personally discovered and managed FreeZia. However, following the controversy surrounding FreeZia's use of counterfeit luxury goods in 2022, observations were raised that the relationship might have been severed as neither side released a formal public statement. Since then, the two have pursued their respective activities without renewing their contract in 2023.

Regarding the termination of the contract at that time, Kang Ye-won stated, "I felt disappointed and regretful," but added, "It is natural for an actor or artist to move to a company to find a better environment, and I believe everyone has their own reasons." This is interpreted as an explanation that while there were personal emotions during the contract termination process, it is not an issue to be interpreted negatively.

In particular, she drew a clear line regarding the 'cutting ties' rumors that have been circulating online for a long time. Kang Ye-won said, "I have things I want to say about that matter, but I do not want to make it a public issue. I believe that is the minimum courtesy toward someone I worked with." While refraining from mentioning specific backgrounds or circumstances, she showed an attitude of prioritizing consideration for the other party.

She continued, "I hope FreeZia does even better now than when she worked with me. That would make me happy too," emphasizing, "We spoke on the phone not long ago, and we are definitely not on bad terms." These remarks are interpreted as effectively denying the conflict and estrangement rumors while suggesting that they still maintain a smooth relationship.

FreeZia became embroiled in social controversy in 2022 when it was confirmed that she wore counterfeit luxury brands in some content, after which she suspended her activities along with a public apology. After a period of self-reflection, she has resumed her activities as a creator, including content production and broadcasting.