Choi Jeong-hyeon faces backlash for secret filming in marital home

During the 6th episode of 'Contract Marriage' aired on the 2nd, Choi Jeong-hyeon faced criticism for filming Jeong Min-hyeon for two days without her consent. The incident, which occurred after the pair had shown increased closeness in previous broadcasts, has raised questions regarding the production team's privacy protection measures.

Choi Jeong-hyeon, who gained recognition as Young-su in the 32nd episode of 'I Am SOLO', has come under fire after it was revealed that he installed a personal camera in his marital home and filmed for two days without the consent of his virtual wife, Jeong Min-hyeon. Despite his explanation that he intended to capture commemorative footage, Jeong expressed significant discomfort. The fact that the unconsented filming was broadcast has also brought the production team's filming management and privacy protection measures under scrutiny.

In the 6th episode of 'Contract Marriage', which aired on KBS Joy and MBC every1 on the 2nd, the conflict between Choi Jeong-hyeon and Jeong Min-hyeon was revealed when she discovered his secret filming. After returning to their marital home following an evening date, the two shared a warm atmosphere. Choi expressed affection toward Jeong, asking, "Since when have you been this cute? Since you were born?" and naturally interlocked fingers while discussing a ring.

However, the sweet atmosphere shifted abruptly due to Choi's suspicious behavior. During their conversation, he frequently checked his mobile phone and acted as if trying to divert Jeong's gaze. Jeong eventually caught him touching a small camera installed on a desk. Upon investigation, it was found that Choi had installed the personal camera while Jeong was cooking, filming their daily lives for approximately two days.

When Jeong asked about the identity of the camera, Choi replied, "This is mine. I took a few clips to keep for myself." He further explained, "Are you upset because I did it without prior consent? I just filmed it to commemorate [the moment]." While he claimed the purpose was to leave personal memories, Jeong raised issues regarding the lack of any prior explanation or request for consent rather than the filming itself.

"If you were going to film, you should have told me. Are you going to be a YouTuber?" Jeong asked in bewilderment. However, Choi appeared to take the situation lightly, jokingly responding, "Are you being sensitive?" Ultimately, Jeong became serious, stating, "I think we need to talk about this," prompting Choi to apologize, saying, "I'll delete it all. I was wrong. I admit it. I didn't think deeply."

Jeong demanded, "I don't feel good. I want you to delete it right in front of me." The two checked the recorded footage together before deleting it, and Jeong personally took the memory card. The conflict remained unresolved as they went to bed without further conversation.

In an interview with the production team, Jeong did not hide her discomfort. "By my common sense, even if you want to film, you should tell me and install it," she said. "The fact that he filmed for two days without saying anything made me wonder if he is a person with a different way of thinking than mine." She added, "I wondered if I really have to say things like this, and if I could live with such an eccentric person." Beyond a simple mishap, the difference in perception regarding privacy and consent has shaken the trust in their relationship.

This scene has also led to questions about participant protection and the production team's filming management. 'Contract Marriage' is an observational variety show where men and women who have just met live together like a real married couple to experience the reality of marriage. The fact that a participant agreed to the program's filming does not mean they consented to separate filming via a personal camera installed by another participant. As the footage of Choi installing and operating the camera was included in the broadcast, attention is focused on when the production team became aware of the situation and what measures they took.

Previously, in the broadcast on the 26th of last month, the two showed increased closeness by looking for a marital home together and engaging in skinship. Choi expressed active interest, even considering actual marriage, and Jeong appeared to be gradually opening her heart. However, trust has now cracked due to the unconsented filming. The conflict surrounding trust was further highlighted when it was revealed that Choi secretly smoked regular cigarettes despite promising Jeong he would switch to e-cigarettes.

Choi Jeong-hyeon gained fame as Young-su in the 32nd divorcee special of 'I Am SOLO' on ENA and SBS Plus. Jeong Min-hyeon appeared as Guk-hwa in 'I Am SOLO, Love Continues,' and the two later met as a virtual couple through 'Contract Marriage.' Interest continues regarding how this filming controversy, which emerged during their process of becoming close, will affect their future relationship.

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