Broadcaster Do Kyung-wan is facing public scrutiny following the release of a video showcasing his watch collection, an act critics claim clashes with his recent public portrayal of financial struggle.
The video, titled “It’s getting cold, what watch should I wear now?” was uploaded to his YouTube channel, “Do-jang TV,” on November 14, according to Newsen.
In the video, Do offers advice on winter fashion and suggests specific watches to pair with seasonal outfits to enhance a man’s sense of style. Do has previously identified himself as a watch enthusiast, telling the YouTube channel “SHW Life’s Watch” that he owns approximately 30 timepieces.
Financial Claims Versus Public Reality
The backlash stems from a perceived contradiction between Do’s social media content and his recent appearances on the KBS 2TV program "Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant." During the broadcast, Do depicted his family facing financial strain, including concerns over plummeting stock prices and attempts to save on electricity bills by avoiding air conditioning during a heatwave. He also mentioned restricting his children’s use of the toilet flush to conserve water.
Following the broadcast, reports surfaced that his wife, singer Jang Yoon-jung, purchased a penthouse in Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu, for 12 billion KRW in cash in April 2024. The disparity between these reports and his televised “poverty cosplay”—a term used by critics to describe the act of feigning financial hardship—led to widespread public criticism. One viewer even filed a formal complaint with the Korea Communications Standards Commission.
Public Reaction on YouTube
The comment section of Do’s latest video reflects the ongoing controversy. While some fans have left messages of support, many users have questioned the timing of the content.
Common criticisms include remarks such as, “Shouldn’t you be self-reflecting?” and “I thought you were worried about utility bills; how do you have money for luxury watches?”
Do has not issued a formal statement regarding the criticism. He and Jang Yoon-jung, who married in 2013, have two children.
Viewers Accuse Do of Poverty Cosplay
Viewers are frustrated by a perceived contradiction between Do’s public claims of extreme frugality on television and his subsequent posts showcasing a collection of luxury watches. This has led to accusations of “poverty cosplay,” where critics argue he is intentionally misrepresenting his financial status to the public.
On the program “Stars’ Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant,” Do described being deeply affected by a stock market downturn and detailed efforts to reduce household expenses, such as turning off air conditioning during extreme heat and limiting toilet flushing to save water.
As of November 15, Do has not provided an official statement regarding the criticism or the complaints filed against him.
Related reading