A popular entertainment program has sparked controversy after featuring a fortune-telling session for a firefighter who died in the line of duty. Producers of Fate Battle 49 maintain that the family provided full consent for the segment.
Producer Response to Backlash
The production team issued a statement on the 18th addressing claims that they inappropriately used the late firefighter’s personal details in a fortune-telling challenge. “The top-ranked contestant in our program stood out by incorporating a unique client case from their grandfather, complete with detailed explanations and consent from all parties involved, including the family,” the producer explained.
Officials emphasized that they facilitated connections between service providers and relevant authorities to ensure proper compensation. “We analyzed public sentiment thoroughly and reflected accurate details in the content, with the family’s complete satisfaction,” the statement continued. The team committed to ongoing efforts to respect participants’ wishes while delivering engaging programming.
Overview of Fate Battle 49
Fate Battle 49 pits 49 fortune-telling experts against each other in missions to locate missing souls through mystical practices. Contestants compete to deliver precise insights on the deceased.
Details of the Controversial Episode
The second episode, titled “Finding Lost Souls,” aired on the 11th. A contestant analyzed one missing person’s four pillars of destiny (saju), life chart, and palm lines. Recruits then used this information to trace the individual’s whereabouts successfully.
Background of the Deceased Firefighter
The featured individual was the late Firefighter Kim Cheol-hong, who perished heroically in 2001 while battling a blaze at the Seodaemun-gu fire station headquarters in Seoul. His story involved carrying out evacuations, rescues, and aiding the injured during the incident.
Public and Family Reactions
Following the broadcast, social media erupted with criticism, labeling the segment disrespectful to the deceased. A family member, viewing it as contrary to the firefighter’s legacy, posted online: “We condemn those who exploit others’ misfortunes for profit.”
Another relative shared: “Watching the episode, we saw our family featured. Through the fortune-telling, we glimpsed his true character, which broke our hearts. Recruits somehow tracked us down post-broadcast, but their interviews felt fabricated. This tragedy repeats everywhere now, and it pains us deeply.”
