Kim Ji-ho, Controversy Over Public Library Damage

Actress Kim Ji-ho has apologized after a controversy arose when she posted a photo on social media showing underlined passages in a book borrowed from a public library. Kim Ji-ho uploaded a photo to her social media account to show she had finished reading "Just That Far Alone," a collection of short stories by author Kim Hoon, with the caption, "I postponed the return and finally finished reading it." However, sections within the book, which had a public library label, were visibly marked with a pen.

Netizens criticized her, stating, "She should compensate for marking a public library book, which is a public good," and "This is a clear act of damaging public property." Following the controversy, Kim Ji-ho issued an apology, stating, "I apologize to those who may have been inconvenienced by my careless actions." She explained, "​My habit of underlining in my own books, wanting to remember the last part of a book I borrowed from the public library, resurfaced," and added, "​I will offer to replace it, either by purchasing a new copy or covering the cost, and express my sincere apologies."

Kim Ji-ho debuted in 1994 in a music video for singer Shin Seung-hun and has since worked as an actress, appearing in dramas. She married actor Kim Ho-jin in 2001 and they have one daughter.

This controversy began with a reading verification photo Kim Ji-ho posted on social media. The book in the photo had a public library label, and underlined passages were visible throughout the text. The post spread through online communities and social media, drawing criticism.

Netizens criticized her, saying, "The very idea of marking a public library book is incomprehensible," "This is a clear act of damaging public property," and "The fact that she didn't feel ashamed and even posted it as verification shows a lack of moral awareness." Books from public libraries are public assets used by many people, and unauthorized marking is prohibited. In case of damage, compensation is the principle.