Im Ani apologizes after comparing Incheon stabbing incident to online game

Internet broadcaster Im Ani has apologized after facing fierce criticism for comparing the Incheon stabbing incident to an online game. The controversy intensified as she described a serious incident—in which citizens were injured by a weapon and a woman in her 20s underwent surgery in cardiac arrest—as if it were a combat scene in a game, and subsequently showed a sharp reaction toward viewers who pointed out her remarks. Although she belatedly admitted her recklessness, this incident has led to ongoing criticism regarding the language use and attitude of internet broadcasters toward such events.

During a broadcast on the 13th, Im Ani mentioned the stabbing incident that occurred in Incheon, saying in essence, "He tied knives to both arms and rode the escalator like a Zealot, stabbing 20 people." A Zealot is a melee combat unit of the Protoss race appearing in the real-time strategy game 'StarCraft,' a character that attacks enemies with swords attached to both arms. As the expression comparing a real criminal situation to a combat scene in a game became known, points were raised that it was inappropriate.

The controversy did not stop at the remarks themselves. When some viewers pointed out the problem with the expression, Im Ani reportedly responded with the sentiment of "just leave." Following her use of an expression that could sound lighthearted regarding an incident where victims occurred, and her sharp reaction to criticism, heavy criticism followed that she did not sufficiently consider the seriousness of the situation. Since a broadcaster's single word can cause an immediate ripple effect in live communication broadcasts, her response after the controversy erupted also became a target of criticism.

As critical public opinion spread online, Im Ani posted an apology on her channel the following day, the 14th. She apologized to the victims and those around them, stating, "Regardless of my intention, it is all my fault." She further reflected on her remarks at the time, saying, "At first, I did not realize the seriousness of the situation and the wrongdoing," and expressed her intention to reflect, noting that her emotional response during the broadcast further fueled the controversy.

She also asked for understanding regarding her inappropriate attitude and attire while hurriedly conveying her position just before the end of the broadcast. Im Ani stated that she deeply reflects on her recklessness and will realize the weight and responsibility of a single word as a streamer. She added a promise to think more carefully before speaking in the future. She also apologized to fans who were disappointed, saying she was sorry for causing controversy late at night.

The core of this controversy is not simply the fact that she mentioned a game character. The issues pointed out were the language used to convey a violent incident where actual victims occurred, and the attitude she showed when receiving indications that it was inappropriate. Even if it is an exaggerated expression commonly used in games or internet broadcasts, the context can change the moment real-life crimes and victims are dealt with. In particular, it must be considered that consuming the specific damage situation of an incident through provocative metaphors or entertainment-oriented expressions can cause further wounds to the victims and their families.

The incident occurred around 1:40 PM on the 13th at the Homeplus food court within a complex commercial facility in Guwol-dong, Namdong-gu, Incheon. According to the Incheon Fire Department, a 59-year-old man, Mr. A, attacked citizens with knives fixed to both hands, and eight people, including users of the mart and cinema, were injured and transported to the hospital. Among them, one woman in her 20s underwent surgery in cardiac arrest. Mr. A, who was subdued by the police, was found to have a prior criminal record for attempted murder and was wearing an electronic anklet at the time.

The stabbing incident, which took place in a commercial facility where many citizens were spending their daily lives, once again highlighted the issue of safety in public places that can affect anyone. As the expression used in the broadcast caused controversy before the shock of the incident had even subsided, this incident is serving as an opportunity to reflect on the influence and responsibility of internet broadcasting. While Im Ani has issued an apology and a promise to prevent recurrence, attention is focused on whether she can restore trust through changed words and actions in future actual broadcasts.

Read the original (Korean)