Keun Geurim’s Eom Ji-yeong Reflects on Aegukga Singing Controversy: “I Had Never Faced Criticism Like That in My Life”

Keun Geurim member Eom Ji-yeong has spoken publicly about the controversy surrounding her performance of the Aegukga, saying, “I had never faced criticism like that in my life.”

Eom, a member of the band Keun Geurim, appeared on the YouTube channel “Gonarija” on June 4, where she met senior singer Kim Jang-hoon. During the appearance, she opened up about the emotional strain she had experienced since drawing criticism for singing the Aegukga in a popular-music style during the national ceremony held before a baseball game. She also expressed remorse over what happened.

The controversy began after Eom appeared as the featured singer before the start of a professional baseball game held at Changwon NC Park on May 16. She performed the Aegukga before the game, but many people criticized the rendition because it included what they viewed as excessive vocal flourishes and ad-libs.

Looking back on the moment and its aftermath, Eom became tearful and said, “It was the first time in my life that I had received so much criticism.” She added that the past period had led her to examine and reflect on the things she had done wrong throughout her life.

Eom apologized again, saying, “If there are people who were unintentionally hurt because of my performance, I truly want to say that I am sorry.” Her remarks framed the incident not only as a public controversy, but also as a personal turning point that made her reconsider her conduct and the impact of her stage choices.

Addressing the singing style that became the focus of the backlash, Eom said she had not realized at the time that there were specific rules or forms to observe when singing the Aegukga at a national event or during a national ceremony. She explained that her thoughts had been led by the desire to express the anthem impressively in her own way.

She also connected the mistake to her experience as an indie band performer, saying that standing on such a large stage before a major crowd was a first for her. “Because I have been active as an indie band musician, I think my personal ambition was excessive when I stood on such a big stage with so many spectators gathered,” she said. Bowing her head, she added, “I am sorry.”