Former basketball player and broadcaster Lee Kwan-hee apologized after becoming embroiled in controversy over remarks about broadcaster Hong Jin-kyung. On the 31st, Lee Kwan-hee sent a text message to Hong Jin-kyung expressing his apology. Hong Jin-kyung shared Lee Kwan-hee's apology message on her SNS to help calm the controversy.

In the text message, Lee Kwan-hee stated, "I really like you, noona, but I'm sorry for causing this controversy because of my mistake. I was trying to be funny, but it seems I hurt you, and I'm reflecting a lot on that. I don't mind being criticized, but I hope nothing ever upsets you. I apologize once again."

Hong Jin-kyung responded to Lee Kwan-hee's apology by saying, "You called me yesterday and now you're texting again today. Seriously, stop apologizing! I also make unintentional mistakes while broadcasting. It's okay. It's okay. Hurry up and come out as a 'real genius' and teach me basketball. Now stop apologizing. Have a good day." Lee Kwan-hee replied again, expressing gratitude: "Please contact me anytime if you need anything. Thank you for accepting my apology with a big heart."

The controversy began with a video Lee Kwan-hee uploaded on his YouTube channel 'Basketball Player God Kwanhee' on the 27th. In the video, while reviewing the Netflix dating reality show 'Single's Inferno 5', Lee Kwan-hee said about Hong Jin-kyung, "Jin-kyung noona doesn't seem to know much about dating, but she gets angry giving dating advice." This remark sparked controversy. Co-star Yoon Ha-bin tried to smooth things over by saying, "She is married and has children," but Lee Kwan-hee retorted, "Does being married make her better than me? I'm going to get married too."

Lee Kwan-hee continued, "I acknowledge Hanhae, Dex, and Dahee noona, but I don't understand Jin-kyung noona. I don't think she's better at dating than I am," and added, "I don't think Jin-kyung noona fits." Netizens criticized Lee Kwan-hee's remarks, calling them "reckless," "innocently rude," and expressing hopes that Hong Jin-kyung was not hurt. Eventually, Lee Kwan-hee set the video to private.

Lee Kwan-hee's remarks caused a major controversy in the broadcasting industry. While Hong Jin-kyung accepted his apology, she addressed the repeated apologies to bring closure to the situation. This incident sparked discussions about relationships among broadcasters and the responsibility of public statements.