Actor Ju Ji Hoon Responds to Racially Insensitive Question With Grace and Humor
Ju Ji Hoon sparks buzz with savage response in German magazine interview
Ju Ji Hoon is making waves after a recent interview with German magazine Mr. ICON. The Kingdom and Squid Game star became the first Korean celeb to grace their cover.
The controversy began when the actor was asked a blunt question:
Mr. ICON: “Does it hurt your feelings when you hear that all Asians look the same?”
Ju Ji Hoon: “As we see it, all white people look the same. Only Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise look different to us.”
His witty clapback immediately went viral, with the Mr. ICON studio reportedly cracking up on set.
The conversation quickly shifted to Korean content’s global success. Ju Ji Hoon criticized Western streaming platforms for not updating their payment structures, despite Korean productions proving huge wins worldwide.
“Although platforms such as ‘Netflix’ and ‘Disney+’ exist, their structures need to change. Even though Korean films have proven themselves successful, their [streaming platforms] production fees and proposals have remained the same as before.”
— Ju Ji Hoon
He also questioned whether Asian stars receive the respect they deserve after global hits like Squid Game.
“For example, ‘Squid Game’ saw massive success, but did you guys treat the director or the lead actor Lee Jung Jae appropriately?”
— Ju Ji Hoon
Ju Ji Hoon’s blunt honesty and sharp humor have everyone talking. No sugarcoating here—just bold talk about race, industry pay, and recognition.
