South Korean actor Jung Hae-in (정해인) was previously embroiled in controversy after an airport photo led to accusations of him 'acting like a diva' and 'ordering his manager around.' The truth has now been revealed: the person holding his umbrella and accompanying him was not a regular staff member, but his younger brother. Jung Hae-in recently joked on a show that his brother was "a sidekick my mom made for me," sparking discussion about their close bond.
The latest episode of the SBS variety show Whenever There's Time (틈만나면,), which aired on May 18 at 9 p.m. KST, featured Jung Hae-in and Heo Sung-tae (허성태) as guests. They joined hosts Yoo Jae-suk (유재석) and Yoo Yeon-seok (유연석) on a quest through Seoul's Dongjak District to find moments of leisure in everyday life.
Previously, a photo of Jung Hae-in at the airport had circulated online. It showed his manager holding a large umbrella, completely shielding the actor. After the photo was released, some netizens criticized his behavior, interpreting it as him 'ordering' staff around, which unexpectedly ignited a controversy about him being a diva and bullying his team.
However, the truth later emerged: the manager holding the umbrella for Jung Hae-in was, in fact, his younger brother. This revelation instantly changed the narrative of the entire incident, leading many netizens to comment on the "truly authentic bond between brothers."
On the show, Jung Hae-in personally revealed the identity of this 'manager,' jokingly describing his brother as "a sidekick my mom made for me." He shared that his brother had accompanied him to work that day and usually joins him on various film sets. The two continue to work side-by-side in a manager-artist capacity.
Upon hearing this, Yoo Jae-suk remarked, "It must not be easy for a younger brother to constantly follow his older brother's schedule, right?" Jung Hae-in admitted that both of them put in significant effort to maintain their working relationship. He stated, "We both work very hard. Because my brother understands how my work operates, he is a very reliable support for me and helps me a lot."
Speaking about their unique brotherly bond, Jung Hae-in emotionally expressed, "I think our relationship has now surpassed that of just family." This statement highlighted his deep trust and reliance on his brother. From the airport umbrella incident that sparked a 'diva' misunderstanding to the revelation of their long-term working relationship, the public has now seen Jung Hae-in's very special private dynamic with his younger brother.
Jung Hae-in is known for his warmth towards those around him. He has renewed his contract with his agency, FNC Entertainment, three times. In the past, he even gifted his manager an imported car as a token of gratitude, a story that has become a heartwarming anecdote among fans. With such a personality, it's no wonder he is seen by his brother as the most reliable "good older brother and good boss."
