'Silence is also a rejection': Actor Choi Kang-hee pleads with alleged stalker to stop

Actor Choi Kang-hee urged an alleged stalker to stop contacting or following her, saying that a lack of response should not be interpreted as consent.

The actor revealed through Instagram on Wednesday that she received a letter in which the sender said they would follow her car unless she objected.

"I'm posting this because everyone can see it," Choi wrote. "Yesterday, I found a letter saying that if I didn't respond, it would be taken as consent and that the sender would follow my car."

She said she later realized the sender was someone who had approached her several days earlier.

"I won't reveal your name. Please don't come looking for me. Silence is also a rejection," she wrote.

Choi added, "I hope you understand that trying to start a conversation without someone's consent, waiting for them or following them is stalking. Even if you don't intend any harm, such behavior can cause psychological fear."

She reiterated her request, writing, "Please don't come looking for me. I'm asking you sincerely. I will also politely decline all letters and gifts sent to broadcasting stations."

Stalking incidents targeting celebrities have continued in recent years. BTS members V and Jungkook, 2PM's Nichkhun, Twice's Nayeon, singer Rain and his wife, actor Kim Tae-hee, as well as actor Park Ha-sun are among the entertainers who have reported stalking or taken legal action.

Choi has been on hiatus from acting since starring in the 2021 KBS drama “Hello, Me!” She is scheduled to return to the stage in September in the play “Closer,” marking her first acting project in about five years.

BY JEONG HYE-JEONG [shin.woojin@joongang.co.kr]