Vocalist apologizes for Korean national anthem rendition at KBO game
Published: 18 May. 2026, 20:37
Vocalist Eom Ji-young of band Keungeurim, or Big Picture in English, performs the Korean national anthem during a KBO game between NC Dinos and Kiwoom Heroes on May 16. [SCREEN CAPUTRE]
Vocalist Eom Ji-young apologized after facing criticism for excessive vocal embellishments while singing the Korean national anthem at a KBO game on Saturday.
“I apologize for causing discomfort with my rendition of the national anthem,” Eom said on her band’s official Instagram account on Sunday. Eom is the vocalist of the band Keungeurim, or Big Picture in English. “My thoughts and abilities fell far short while preparing for the performance.”
Eom performed the national anthem ahead of the NC Dinos’ game against the Kiwoom Heroes at Changwon NC Park in South Gyeongsang on Saturday.
During the performance, Eom added vocal ad-libs and improvisations, drawing criticism from some online communities that the rendition was overly stylized and was unfit for a song that should be sung more solemnly.
“It was a huge and exciting stage for me, but I also feel I caused trouble for everyone at NC,” Eom added, referring to the NC Dinos baseball club. “I am grateful for both the critical comments and the comforting direct messages.”
Eom added that she wants to stay humble and return with better performances.
“Above all, I sincerely apologize once again to everyone who felt uncomfortable because of my performance,” Eom said.
This article was originally written in Korean and translated by a bilingual reporter with the help of generative AI tools. It was then edited by a native English-speaking editor. All AI-assisted translations are reviewed and refined by our newsroom.
BY KIM EUN-BIN [
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