A recent video featuring Japanese actor Sato Takeru and Korean singer-entertainer Kangnam has stirred controversy online, as fans react strongly to Sato’s perceived lack of formality during their first meeting.
The episode, released on July 22 through Kangnam’s YouTube channel Neighborhood Friend Kangnami, featured Sato Takeru as a guest to discuss behind-the-scenes stories related to the Japanese remake of the tvN drama Marry My Husband, for which he participated in the soundtrack.
Early in the conversation, Kangnam asked Sato about his birth year. Upon hearing that Sato was born in 1989 and revealing he himself was born in 1987, Kangnam was momentarily surprised when Sato responded, “Then we’re practically classmates.” Kangnam humorously pushed back, saying, “What are you talking about? There’s a two-year difference!” to which Sato replied he had attended school with students born in 1988 due to his March birthday.
When they realized they were born just two days apart in March, Sato insisted once more, “That makes us the same age,” prompting Kangnam to joke, “You’re trying to act like we’re equals, huh? Let’s behave, kid,” easing the tension with laughter.
However, what some viewers found lighthearted, others interpreted as disrespectful. Sato’s use of informal speech, including addressing Kangnam with casual expressions and a breezy “arigato”, drew criticism from Korean fans, especially given the cultural significance of honorifics and age-based hierarchy in Korea.
Comments ranged from enthusiasm over the unexpected celebrity pairing “Kangnam and Sato Takeru together? Incredible!” to disapproval: “Using informal language when he’s younger and it’s their first meeting is unacceptable,” and “This is the most impolite behavior I’ve seen from a Japanese actor visiting Korea.”
Others offered a more lenient perspective, suggesting that Kangnam’s cheerful disposition and ability to keep the atmosphere friendly likely encouraged Sato’s relaxed behavior.
Nonetheless, many viewers applauded Kangnam for his composure and professionalism in managing the situation without letting it disrupt the interview’s flow. Comments praising his demeanor included: “Kangnam is a real pro,” and “He didn’t let the atmosphere be ruined even in that awkward moment.”
Kangnam, who married Olympic speed skating champion Lee Sang-hwa in 2019, continues to work actively in both Korea and Japan, often serving as a cultural bridge between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Sato Takeru plays the male lead in the Japanese adaptation of Marry My Husband, currently airing two episodes every Sunday at 11 p.m. on tvN.
Nate
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