Actress Moon Ji In apologizes after genetic test video sparks backlash

Actress Moon Ji In has issued an apology after facing criticism from some viewers following the release of a video documenting her genetic testing process ahead of giving birth.

On June 12, Moon Ji In uploaded a video to the YouTube channel she runs with her husband, comedian and actor Kim Ki Ri, showing her undergoing testing for Fragile X syndrome.

In the video, Moon Ji In explained that her doctor recommended the test because of her family history, including a younger brother with a developmental disability. She said medical staff advised her to check for the possibility of carrying a gene related to Fragile X syndrome, particularly because she is expecting a son.

The actress admitted that she experienced significant anxiety while waiting for the results. “Hearing there was a 25% chance was quite shocking,” she said, adding that she struggled emotionally before receiving the results.

Fortunately, the test results came back normal. Moon was seen shedding tears of relief and celebrating the news with Kim Ki Ri.

However, after the video was released, some viewers expressed discomfort with how the situation was portrayed. Critics argued that Moon Ji In's concerns about the possibility of passing on the condition and her visible relief after receiving the results could be hurtful to families who have relatives with developmental disabilities.

Some commenters wrote that the video could increase anxiety among people who have siblings with developmental disabilities or create misconceptions for those considering marriage or having children.

As the controversy continued, Moon Ji In addressed the criticism directly in the comments section. She wrote, “I understood that the probability was extremely low,” adding, “I also wanted to share information after learning that testing for Fragile X syndrome exists.”

She continued, “Because I was so startled, I may have expressed myself in a way that made some people uncomfortable. I thought I had explained things sufficiently in the video, but it seems I fell short. I'm sorry.”

In another comment, the actress added that much of her relief stemmed from easing concerns that her mother had carried for a long time.

“My choice of words was inadequate,” she said. “I will be more careful when discussing these matters in the future.”

Moon Ji In and Kim Ki Ri got married in 2024 and recently announced that they are expecting their first child. The couple is scheduled to welcome their baby in August.