25.08.18.Today News : Korean Archer Jang Chae-hwan Faces Backlash Over Far-Right Posts, Issues Apology

Korean Archer Jang Chae-hwan Faces Backlash Over Far-Right Posts, Issues Apology

• National team archer sparks controversy with far-right remarks on social media, Criticism grows over "damaging national dignity" as calls for discipline rise

Jang Chae-hwan, a member of Korea’s national men’s recurve archery team, has come under fire after repeatedly posting far-right content on his personal social media account. Although Jang quickly issued an apology, critics argue that his remarks have tarnished the dignity expected of a national athlete, raising debates over possible disciplinary measures.

National archery representative Jang Chae-hwan is embroiled in controversy after posting a series of far-right comments on social media.

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• The Beginning of the Controversy

Jang was selected for the national team in March but soon stirred controversy when his posts questioning the validity of the 2022 presidential election resurfaced.

He wrote, “Voting should be done in person, no manipulation, let’s stop communism,” and even posted, “China = ballot rigging = Jeolla = National Election Commission: a disastrous combo.” These statements were condemned for spreading conspiracy theories and targeting specific groups.

• The “Anti-Communism” Slogan

The situation escalated further when it was revealed that Jang used the slogan “멸공” (“eradicate communism”) in his profile. While Jang defended it as a military expression commonly known to soldiers, many criticized it as a politically loaded phrase inappropriate for a national athlete.

• Apology and Public Backlash

Facing mounting criticism, Jang released a statement on social media, apologizing to the Korea Archery Association, his team, and the public. He stressed, “I had no malicious intent,” but also argued that as a “second-tier” national team member, he did not view himself as a public figure.

However, critics dismissed this claim, noting that any athlete representing the nation bears responsibility for their words and actions.

• Reactions from Sports Authorities

The Korea Archery Association confirmed awareness of Jang’s posts and stated that it had reminded athletes to be cautious in their social media use. Yet, it has not confirmed whether disciplinary actions will be pursued.

Observers note that Article 15 of the Korea Sports Association’s regulations explicitly requires national athletes to maintain dignity befitting their role, suggesting Jang’s actions may have breached those rules.

• Looking Ahead

Although Jang failed to place in the top four during the final evaluations—meaning he will not compete in major international tournaments—the scandal has triggered broader debates over the responsibilities of national athletes.

Experts stress that the incident highlights the need for clearer guidelines on athletes’ online activities to protect the reputation of national sports teams. The issue is expected to remain under scrutiny as sports authorities deliberate on next steps.

One-line summary : Korean archer Jang Chae-hwan apologized for posting far-right content on social media, but criticism persists over damaging the dignity of the national team.