Lee Da Hae recently tweeted her apology to the Filipinos. What happened? Here's the story.
On a KBS2TV variety show "Sweet Night", Lee Da Hae, who is one of the guests, was asked to demonstrate her good command of English, since she and her family had stayed in Sydney, Australia for five years, where she graduated from Burwood Girls High School. When she spoke English in American and British accents, she really impressed the hosts and guests (and me!) with her clever imitations. Then, when asked to demonstrate in a Filipino accent, Da Hae shi spoke in a way which sound rather insulting and it angered many Filipinos who watched the video. Watch it below to judge yourself. I think it's pretty fair to say she did it with due respect and good imitation. Anyway, they are entertainers, and exaggeration is often used in entertainment to arouse the interest of the audience. No offence. :D
When Lee Da Hae knew of this, she tweeted an apology on Wednesday 3rd of Nov:
On Wednesday 3rd November 2010, @cherry4eva84 said:Video: Pakdatsyit @ Youtube
First I'd like to give you my sincere apologies for what seems to be a misunderstanding.
It has come to my attention that many of you from the Philippines have posted comments protesting that i was being derisive by mimicking Filipinos when they speak English.
Therefore, in light of this matter I'd like to take this opportunity to clear the air.
In spite of what many people believe, I myself did NOT mention anything
about the Philippines or Filipino accent whilst on the TV show.
On the other hand I recall bringing up Southeast Asia and not the Philippines and the subtitles were inserted when the show was being edited of which I was not aware of until it was aired.
The TV show where this footage was taken from was designed to amuse its audience and my sole purpose was to entertain the viewers by coming up with lighthearted stories.
Since the producer knows that i speak English he asked me if I could
share any episodes that touch upon the English language.
As we all know every country has a typical accent when its people speak English (including myself) so after giving it some thought, I came up with a few lines where I simply tried to compare different English accents: the somewhat rigid British accent and beginners in Southeast Asia whose English tends to be a little hard-edged. No pun or ridicule was intended.
As an individual who use to take English classes over the phone with a Filipino instructor, I give you my word that even the mere thought of mocking Filipinos would never cross my mind.
I cannot tell you how much Filipino fans mean to me and as much as I love them, I would in no way
hurt or upset them.
I hope I have clarified any misunderstandings and once again I am truly sorry if I inadvertently
hurt anyone's feelings.
-i really love you, my Filipino fans..
Twitter: Lee Da Hae’s Twitter
