“Hi Bye, Mama” (하이바이, 마마) is currently one of the more popular ongoing K-drama series on tvN and Netflix.
Recently, the mother of child actor Seo Woo Jin (서우진) took to Instagram to address the negative feedback about her son’s female role in the popular show.
Many viewers have been puzzled about why a boy was selected to portray a girl. The production crew later explained it was due to his acting skills and the fact that he bares resemblance to Kim Tae Hee (김태희), who played his mum Cha Yu Ri in “Hi Bye, Mama”.
Despite the fact, many netizens have been criticising the fact that Seo Woo Jin might end up getting confused about his gender identity. Refusing to stay silent, the boy’s mother took to Instagram yesterday (Monday, 30th March) to confront the naysayers in a lengthy post.
Her lengthy statement (cited from Soompi) reads:
“I can’t hold it in anymore, so I’m saying a few words. Many people are worried about Woo Jin’s gender identity. Unlike other children of his age, Woo Jin is a smart kid who understands very well about what he is doing right now and why he plays the role of a girl. I didn’t make him audition for the role because I wanted him to play the main character. Of course, when I was offered to play the role of a girl, I asked Woo Jin for his opinion, and he willingly said that he was okay and that he could do it well.”
“Gender identity? I’m sure everyone who’s ever interacted with my son knows that’s nothing to worry about. Woo Jin is very boyish. He likes to hear that he’s ‘cool’ or ‘manly’ rather than ‘cute’ or ‘pretty’. His dream is to become Hulk. He wants to be a strong man like Hulk. He’s very boyish when it comes to playing, acting, and talking.”
His mother also informed everyone that she and her hubby are both psychology majors, with her PHD holder beau currently working as a psychologist. As such, she’s urging internet users to quit slamming their parenting skills, making assumptions or spreading false rumours when they know little about their situation.
“I know my son better than anyone. I care for him, and I love him. Yes, I know you may see him as a boy (in the drama) after you find out, and you may feel less immersed and uncomfortable watching it. I fully understand that. However, it is only a difference of opinion, but I think the problem is that he’s receiving excessive criticism for playing the role of a girl for a short while,” she added.
Having said that, Seo Woo Jin’s mum thanked those who have been offering support to her talented son.
The finale of “Hi Bye, Mama” will be on 19th April 2020.
Source: Soompi.
