On May 6, the press conference for Coupang Play’s new variety show Bonjour Bakery was held in Seoul, attended by high-profile cast members including Kim Hee Ae, Cha Seung Won, Kim Seon Ho, and Lee Ki Taek.

Bonjour Bakery is described as a healing baking variety program set in a quiet rural village, where senior citizens and bakery staff share warmth and comfort through desserts. The show has already generated buzz with guest appearances by idols and actors like Dino, Ong Seong Wu, and Lee Joo Bin.

However, much of the spotlight at the event shifted toward Kim Seon Ho’s past controversy involving alleged tax evasion through a family-run agency.

Earlier this year, the actor publicly apologized, stating that he had taken corrective action by returning corporate assets and initiating the closure of the company.

The press conference marked Kim Seon Ho’s first official public appearance since the controversy. When asked about his feelings returning to the industry, many expected a sincere apology or clarification.

Instead, his response focused entirely on the program: “It’s a show where we both give and receive healing. It’s very meaningful work, so I did my best. To bring healing to the elderly, we had to remember that they are the main characters.”

Notably, he avoided directly addressing the controversy, offering neither further explanation nor a promise to prevent similar issues in the future.

Following the somewhat unexpected response, writer Kim Ran Joo stepped in to highlight his behavior on set: “The grandmothers found the space unfamiliar at first, but Kim Seon Ho approached them first and greeted them warmly, helping them feel comfortable.”

Veteran actress Kim Hee Ae also praised him, saying: “He may have a gentle image, but when working, he shows strong leadership and decisiveness.”

While the production team attempted to shift focus back to the show’s wholesome concept, Kim Seon Ho’s indirect answer is likely to spark mixed reactions among fans and netizens.

His return raises ongoing questions about accountability and public expectations for celebrities following controversies especially in South Korea’s highly scrutinized entertainment industry.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스