Entertainer Lee Hwi Jae apologized for his controversial behavior as a host during the 'SBS Drama Awards' on December 31.  

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He was criticized for his unnecessary comments about some of the actors who participated in the ceremony.  The biggest problem was that he pointed out Sung Dong Il's clothes and asked, "Are you really an actor?  Are you sure you're not a production crew member?"  Sung Dong Il and the audience members were unable to hide their surprise.  Lee Hwi Jae, upon belatedly finding out that Sung Dong Il was wearing a suit under the jumper, said, "Oh, so you were wearing a jumper because you were cold," but the atmosphere remained chilly.

On top of that, he kept saying that 'Scarlet Heart: Ryeo's IU and Lee Jun Ki's relationship seemed suspect, even though IU was known to be dating Jang Kiha.  He also kept trying to make Jo Jung Suk talk about his girlfriend, Gummy.  He also asked Nam Goong Min the bad things about Minah and rebuked Yoo Yun Suk and Lee Jun Ki's jokes.  

As a result, he received hate and wrote on his SNS the other day, "Everything was a result of my mistakes and carelessness, so I am very, very sorry.  I've already apologized to Sung Dong Il.  I also relay my apologies to the many actors who were uncomfortable by my hosting, including IU and Jo Jung Suk, as well as the viewers.  Once again, I use this opportunity to apologize for everything that happened due to my ambitions.  I will work hard and even harder to get ahold of myself and be more prudent.  Again, I am sorry."

In response, Sung Dong Il and IU's sides said they had no comments.  On top of that, on January 2, SBS's side said, "We are analyzing what happened during the 2016 'SBS Drama Awards' and reflecting on the parts that became controversial.  We will do our best to do a better job with the 2017 'SBS Drama Awards.'"