BigBang's Daesung Faces Backlash for Controversial Staff Salary Comments

Recently, BigBang's Daesung received criticism over his remarks on staff wages during a chat with BLACKPINK's Lisa on his YouTube channel 'Zip Daesung.' The conversation, which took place last month, raised eyebrows among viewers.

During the show on January 28 KST, Daesung and Lisa were casually chatting when Lisa took a break for a touch-up. She noticed Daesung waiting and asked about his touch-up. Daesung revealed that the staff member responsible had left for errands and would return later, emphasizing that he only pays for the time they are physically present. This led to a discussion about the nuances of managing staff and expenses as a CEO.

While the exchange seemed light-hearted, it quickly stirred debate online. Some criticized Daesung, suggesting that withholding pay for standby time could constitute labor exploitation. Comments ranged from accusations of violating labor laws to labeling it as wage theft disguised as humor.

On the other hand, some defended Daesung, claiming that the conversation was taken out of context and blown out of proportion. They highlighted that without knowing the contractual specifics, assumptions should not be made.

The term "kkeokgi," referring to the manipulation of work hours to cut wages, was central to the discourse. According to labor laws, employees on standby should receive a minimum of 70% of their regular wages.

The ongoing discussion underscores concerns about normalizing questionable labor practices within the entertainment industry, even when discussed in a joking manner.