Baek Jong-won Meets Kim Jae-hwan Amid Ongoing Controversy

Amid the intensifying Baek Jong-won controversy, PD Kim Jae-hwan of Studio Ohjaena—who had previously exposed Baek’s behind-the-scenes broadcasting behavior—has revealed that he met privately with the food entrepreneur for an in-depth conversation. According to Kim, he waited for Baek at the airport as the latter returned from France after filming tvN’s Jangsa Genius Paiksang 3, then met with him the following day for a one-on-one meeting at Baek’s company. The two reportedly spoke for four and a half hours.

This encounter holds weight, as Baek Jong-won had previously declared a halt to his TV appearances and hinted at a fresh start following mounting backlash. Kim Jae-hwan noted that while Baek seemed hesitant, he opened up during the lengthy discussion, providing insight into his mindset as the controversy unfolds.

Studio Ohjaena Hints at New Revelations in Upcoming Video

In footage shared by Studio Ohjaena, Kim Jae-hwan confronted Baek Jong-won directly at the airport. Baek reportedly responded with frustration, questioning Kim’s intentions: “Why can’t you just leave me alone? You have a grudge against me?” Baek also challenged Kim’s claims about past broadcast manipulation, asking whether he had ever canceled cast members via phone. Kim denied this, prompting Baek to ask for specifics.

On May 9, Studio Ohjaena uploaded a teaser titled “Notice of Video Release on May 13 at 10 AM,” suggesting that their next upload will include footage from the four-hour conversation. In the teaser, Baek responds dismissively to pesticide allegations, saying, “Why talk so extremely? It’s insane. They used pesticides? I told them to get a new one.” Viewers expressed concern over his tone, especially given that he had already apologized for using pesticide sprayers.

Baek Jong-won Faces Additional Allegations

Meanwhile, Baek Jong-won and his company, Dubon Korea, have come under police investigation for reportedly violating the Food Sanitation Act. According to Seoul’s Gangnam Police Station, a formal complaint alleged that Dubon Korea outsourced the manufacturing of chicken fryers to an unlicensed company and distributed them to branches like 54BEERS without proper inspections.

In response, Dubon Korea announced on May 9 that they would roll out a ₩3 billion support fund to assist franchisees. In an official statement, the company said that Baek Jong-won would personally meet franchise owners nationwide and pursue a new cooperative model aimed at sustainable growth. This announcement follows Baek’s apology video released on May 6, where he outlined steps for damage control and rebuilding trust.

Baek Jong-won Steps Back from Broadcasts

Baek Jong-won has since confirmed that he will step away from all television activities except for ongoing projects. His decision follows multiple public criticisms—including issues surrounding origin labeling, inflated ham pricing, pork content accuracy, and hygiene control. Despite previously pledging reform, public dissatisfaction has persisted.

Addressing the so-called “broadcast abuse” claims, Baek admitted responsibility, saying, “As a listed company CEO, I understand the concerns about pursuing broadcast work in parallel. This criticism is deserved, and I take full responsibility if anyone was hurt by my actions or words.” He continued, “Moving forward, I will no longer appear on new TV programs. I’ll channel my full energy into managing Dubon Korea and working toward global expansion.”

Final Thoughts on the Baek Jong-won Controversy

Kim Jae-hwan shared that during his private meeting with Baek, they explored misunderstandings and differing viewpoints. While he wasn’t sure if a second meeting would happen, Kim emphasized his commitment to uncovering the truth. “I don’t want conflict,” he said. “But if there’s bribery, I’ll take it and expose it. We’ll see how this plays out.”

With Studio Ohjaena preparing to release its detailed interview footage, public anticipation is growing over what new revelations may emerge next.