Kim Sun-jin, the wife of late actor Jo Min-ki and a first-generation makeup artist, has made her return to broadcasting after about seven years, leading to a polarized reaction from the public.
Kim appeared as a contestant on the recently released Coupang Play makeup survival show 'Just Makeup'. She introduced herself as a makeup artist known as 'Jini' for 37 years, stating that she has worked on the makeup of numerous stars including Shim Eun-ha, Park Joong-hoon, the late Choi Jin-sil, and Shim Hye-jin. "As a first-generation artist, I wanted to show that I have something special," she said. Kim presented a 'strong sister' concept during the competition and expressed her determination to play well after a long time.
While explaining her makeup concept, Kim became emotional and shed tears. Seeing this, judge Lee Sa-bae also got teary-eyed. The two had a past connection as Kim was the owner and Lee was an employee at the beauty shop Kim used to run. Lee commented, "Seeing the owner standing in front of the judges brought up many emotions," to which Kim responded, "I think we both recalled memories of each other. That sentiment seems to have led to the tears." Kim received evaluations from Lee Jin-soo but unfortunately was eliminated in the first episode.
The broadcast that featured Kim Sun-jin has since sparked a heated response online. While some voices welcomed her return, others expressed discomfort by mentioning the past controversies surrounding her husband Jo Min-ki.
Jo Min-ki was embroiled in allegations of sexual assault against his students during his tenure as a university professor in 2018. Initially, he denied the allegations but later issued an apology as the controversy escalated, and he suddenly passed away ahead of a police investigation. Consequently, the investigation was closed due to 'no charges'. Afterward, Kim Sun-jin faced controversy for posting a birthday tribute to her husband at his gravesite on social media.
Netizens expressed support saying, "Kim Sun-jin is not responsible for her husband's mistakes," "She is a skilled professional," and "Let’s end the guilt by association" while others criticized, "Victims will suffer their entire lives," and "Did she really have to return to broadcasting given her husband's past?"
Despite still being labeled 'the family of a Me Too perpetrator', Kim Sun-jin sought to present herself not as 'Jo Min-ki's wife' but as a 'makeup artist' through this broadcast. She conveyed, "Having only operated a shop made me lose confidence, but the skills I learned cannot be forgotten," expressing her desire to display the image of a strong woman.
Meanwhile, 'Just Makeup' is a makeup survival show where makeup artists representing K-beauty beyond Korea fiercely compete with their own unique styles. Hosted by singer Lee Hyori, judges include Jung Saem-mool, Seo-ok, Lee Jin-soo, and Lee Sa-bae.