KBS has once again apologized for the controversy over the damage done to Byeongsan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Andong,during the filming of their new drama, 'The First Night With the Duke.'
On January 3, KBS stated, "We deeply apologize for the incident involving damage to the cultural property during filming at Byeongsan Seowon in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do."
The head of the drama center and the responsible producer visited Byeongsan Seowon to assess the situation. They confirmed that new nails were inserted to secure props at approximately 10 existing nail marks, adding further pressure to the structure.
KBS explained, "The nails were placed in about 10 spots, including eight beam ends at Mandaeru Pavilion and two beam ends at Dongjae Hall." They also clarified, "These spots are not related to the photos of nail marks on Mandaeru columns reported by some media outlets." KBS acknowledged the issue, stating, "Even if there were pre-existing nail holes, driving in new nails and adding pressure constitutes damage to the cultural property. We sincerely apologize for this."
However, they added, "Before filming, the production team received approval from the Byeongsan Seowon caretaker regarding the locations where props could be hung. The filming was conducted under the caretaker's supervision."
They pledged full cooperation with the investigation, stating, "We will humbly accept the results of the police investigation and inspections conducted by Andong City and the National Heritage Administration. We will also actively cooperate in restoring the damaged areas."
KBS also outlined future measures, saying, "We will educate external drama production teams about the invaluable heritage of Byeongsan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and strengthen our oversight and management." Additionally, KBS announced plans to create a new set of guidelines, stating, "The guidelines will include consulting cultural heritage experts or conducting filming under expert supervision when shooting at cultural properties, historic sites, and heritage locations."
KBS concluded, "We sincerely apologize for causing significant concern and disappointment to the public due to the cultural property damage during the drama's filming. We will fully cooperate with investigations conducted by the relevant authorities."
The controversy began on December 30 when reports surfaced that nails had been hammered into the structure of Byeongsan Seowon’s Mandaeru Pavilion during filming. Byeongsan Seowon, located in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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