Singer Shim Su-bong. [Sony Music]
Singer Shim Su-bong. [Sony Music]

Singer Shim Su-bong has again apologized over remarks targeting fellow singer Kim Da-hyun that sparked a public controversy.

Shim issued the apology to the audience at the "2026 THE Shim Su-bong SHOW" nationwide tour concert held at Baekun Art Hall in Wonju on Saturday, according to Star Today. It was Shim's first official public appearance since the controversy erupted in September over remarks directed at Kim.

Pausing mid-performance, Shim said the comments stemmed from personal shortcomings and expressed remorse. "They were words that should never have been said, and they came entirely from my own inadequacy and failings," Shim said. "I have spent this time in reflection and repentance, and I will continue to live with that attitude going forward."

Shim also addressed Kim directly. "I know it must have been very difficult, but I hope you will pull yourself together and grow into a wonderful musician," Shim said, adding, "Above all, I will hold close in my heart the deep love of the audience and fans who came to my concert even amid all of this, and I will cherish it for a long, long time."

The controversy began when Shim, performing at the 10th Jinan Highland Trot Music Festival in Jinan-gun, North Jeolla Province, on Sept. 20, made remarks about the singer who had performed just before taking the stage. "She seems like a young woman who doesn't know what singing is, or what life is," Shim said, adding, "Please don't put that performer on before me." Kim had been the act immediately preceding Shim that evening.

As the backlash grew, Shim offered an initial apology, saying, "I did not know exactly who the singer before me was, and it was absolutely not said to embarrass any specific person." Shim acknowledged, however, that "it was clearly wrong of me, as a senior, to say something that would hurt a younger singer's feelings."


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