Lee Ji Ah has officially addressed the controversy surrounding her grandfather’s pro-Japanese activities during Korea’s colonial period, a sensitive issue in South Korea where descendants of colonial-era collaborators often still benefit from wealth accumulated through their ancestors’ cooperation with Japanese occupiers.
On February 21st, through her agency BH Entertainment, Lee stated, “After much careful consideration over a long period, I’ve gathered the courage to speak up, believing it’s right to take responsibility and set the record straight.”
The actress opened up about her family disputes, revealing, “Since becoming independent at 18, I have never received any financial support from my parents. Though it’s embarrassing to admit, due to complicated family history, I’ve been estranged from my parents for over 10 years.” She emphasized, “I have no knowledge of or involvement in their controversial property or lawsuits regarding land ownership disputes.”
Addressing her grandfather’s pro-Japanese allegations, Lee explained, “My grandfather passed away when I was two years old, so I have no memories of him. I grew up completely unaware of his pro-Japanese activities.” She shared that after learning of the controversy, she made multiple visits to the Center for Historical Truth and Justice to verify facts and study relevant materials.
“During this process, I confirmed records of my grandfather’s donations, and I believe such actions cannot be justified by any means, even considering the historical context,” Lee stated. She added, “If the land in Anyang, which is at the center of this controversy, was acquired during the Japanese colonial period, I believe it should absolutely be returned to the state.”
Lee also clarified misconceptions, stating, “False claims circulating online and in comments suggest that I said ‘I respect my grandfather,’ which I want to correct as this is untrue.” She concluded, “As a descendant, I sincerely apologize,” adding, “I will continue to face historical truths with humility and live with responsibility.”
The statement follows recent reports by The Fact detailing an ongoing legal dispute between Lee’s father and his siblings over land ownership. The case has drawn particular attention as Lee’s grandfather was among Korea’s prominent colonial-era collaborators.
Watch Amasian TV on lgchannels.com or Amasian.tv to stream movies and dramas featuring Lee Ji Ah for free, now on Channel 250 in the U.S. and Channel 263 in Canada.
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