Popular korean actress apologizes to filipinos for allegedly Mocking english accent

CEBU, Philippines - Popular Korean actress Lee Da Hae has issued an apology to Filipinos and denied that she mocked Filipino teachers' English accent on a Korean TV program. Saying it was just a "misunderstanding," Lee didn't admit her mistake following her appearance on the now-defunct KBS TV show "Sweet Night" and instead blamed the program for putting subtitles that referred to the Philippines, according to a report by the entertainment website Pep.ph.

Based on the subtitles of the Youtube clip of her interview now causing an uproar among Filipino netizens, she did an impression of an American, British and a Filipino English teacher. She was asked to say, "Excuse me. I'm a little bit thirsty. Can I have a glass of water please?"

Lee posted the apology on her Twitter account on Nov. 3 in which she explained her side.

"First, I'd like to give you my sincere apologies for what seems to be a misunderstanding.

"It has come to my attention that many of you from the Philippines have posted comments protesting that i was being derisive by mimicking Filipinos when they speak English.

"Therefore, in light of this matter I'd like to take this opportunity to clear the air.

"In spite of what many people believe, I myself did NOT mention anything about the Philippines or Filipino accent whilst on the TV show.

"On the other hand, I recall bringing up Southeast Asia and not the Philippines, and the subtitles were inserted when the show was being edited, of which I was not aware of until it was aired.

"The TV show where this footage was taken from was designed to amuse its audience and my sole purpose was to entertain the viewers by coming up with lighthearted stories.

"Since the producer knows that i speak English he asked me if I could share any episodes that touch upon the English language.

"As we all know every country has a typical accent when its people speak English (including myself) so after giving it some thought, I came up with a few lines where I simply tried to compare different English accents: the somewhat rigid British accent and beginners in Southeast Asia whose English tends to be a little hard-edged. No pun or ridicule was intended.

"As an individual who used to take English classes over the phone with a Filipino instructor, I give you my word that even the mere thought of mocking Filipinos would never cross my mind.

"I cannot tell you how much Filipino fans mean to me and as much as I love them, I would in no way hurt or upset them.

"I hope I have clarified any misunderstandings and once again I am truly sorry if I inadvertently hurt anyone's feelings."

The Korean star, who lived and studied in Sydney, Australia, was the star of several Koreanovelas that became hits in the Philippines such as "My Girl" and "Green Rose." She's currently the star of "East of Eden" now airing on GMA 7. (THE FREEMAN)