Youtuber Johnny Somali apologizes for kissing a wartime memorial statue in Korea. Internet doubts sincerity | On trend

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According to a Korea Times report, Somali expressed regret for his actions in a video posted by YouTube channel Jcompany on Thursday. Standing next to the statue, Somali bowed and apologized to the Korean public: “I would like to apologize to the Koreans. I didn't understand the meaning of the statue.” He went on to explain that his intention was to entertain his American audience, but acknowledged that his behavior was disrespectful. Somali also added in Korean: “I’m really sorry.”

Watch the clip here:

Skepticism surrounds his apology

Despite the apology, many viewers expressed doubts about Somali's sincerity. Critics point out that the YouTuber has not yet removed several controversial posts from his social media accounts. In one notable incident, Somali posted an image on Instagram featuring a photo of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe with the caption: “I defeated the Koreans for you, Shinzo Abe.” Although the YouTube post has since been deleted, the Instagram photo remains exist, albeit with a revised headline: “RIP Shinzo Abe!”

Check out the post here:

Google Trends: Johnny Somali

Since the YouTuber posted the apology video, people have been searching for him, resulting in his name trending on Google.

To further fuel the controversy, Somali also posted a video of himself lying and dancing in a subway car, which was not removed. Although he removed videos of himself disrespecting the statue and causing a disturbance at a supermarket – incidents that led to a police investigation – some questionable content is still visible online.

(Also Read: Indian influencer faces backlash for making fun of Chinese locals in viral video. People ask her to 'educate herself')

Watch the video here:

Police investigation and ongoing controversy

According to the Korea Times, Somali is also being investigated by Mapo police in Seoul for obstruction of business as a result of his behavior in the supermarket. In addition, the police are investigating allegations of bodily harm and drug use. Somali is currently subject to an “exit ban” that prevents him from leaving Korea until the investigation is completed.

However, skepticism over his actions continues to grow as many question whether his apology is genuine or just a response to public backlash.