After his drunk driving controversy, singer Eru resurfaced on TV. He took the stage with his father, veteran trot star Tae Jin-ah, sharing heartfelt words for their family — but viewers were sharply divided.
The July 6 episode of TV Chosun variety show Lovers of Joseon marked a fifth-anniversary special with the 'Lovers of Joseon Singing Contest.' The show revisited Tae Jin-ah's family story, including his care for his wife Ok-kyung, who is battling dementia. Their previous appearance drew high ratings and major attention.
In a video interview, Eru opened up with an apology to his mother. Fighting back tears, he said, "I put my mom through so much. If there is a next life, I want to be born as her son again." He then performed his hit song 'Black Glasses,' which he said is one of her favorites.
After that came a performance of Tae Jin-ah's signature song 'Ok-kyung.' Leaving the judges' table, Tae Jin-ah joined his son on stage, putting their family bond on full display. Eru said, "It has been a long time since I stood on stage, and I was so nervous — even more so because I was singing in front of my father. Thank you for the support and encouragement after seeing our family on the show."
But once the show aired, online reactions turned divisive. Some viewers criticized, saying, "Is he using a family narrative to pave a comeback?" "No matter the touching moments, the drunk driving scandal is not forgotten," and "I do not want to see him on TV anymore." Others countered, "He has reflected long enough," and "His feelings for his mother seemed sincere."
Eru halted activities after a 2022 drunk driving accident. His blood alcohol content was at a license-suspension level, and he stepped down from a drama he had been cast in.
Though his appearance aimed to convey genuine feelings for his family, public sentiment about a post-controversy return remains cold. All eyes are on whether Eru will use this stage as a springboard to fully resume activities.