Generation

Daniel Padilla accused of mocking Koreans in AAA speech

by Deanna Macaranas

PUBLISHED ON December 17, 2023

DANIEL Padilla’s acceptance speech at the Asia Artist Awards 2023 has triggered negative reactions, with some accusing him of mocking Koreans.

Padilla was the recipient, along with former girlfriend Kathryn Bernado, of the AAA Fabulous Award. The award ceremony was held on December 14 at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

WATCH: The acceptance speech of former couple Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo for their individual AAA FABULOUS AWARD at the #AsiaArtistAwards2023. pic.twitter.com/CnPXKeHWEv
— Kapamilya Online World (@kowalerts) December 14, 2023

Padilla began his speech in Filipino. He was later heard saying “annyeong” and laughing off the mic.

Some netizens discussed their thoughts on X regarding his casual way of greeting in Korean and felt he was mocking Koreans, especially with how he laughed afterwards.

ok but like. daniel padilla's mocking "annyeong" and the way he laughed after and was so embarassed was so rude like uhm
— aya 🌻 (@082won) December 14, 2023

those k-artists learning the proper way to say filipino phrases yet him not giving the bare minimum on how to properly say formal greetings to the koreans 😹 https://t.co/5n648Ygs5u
— 🐄 (@forzaeyun) December 15, 2023

tbh people these days would make an issue about everything! lol

how sure are u that it’s mocking? laughing doesn’t always equate to mocking,, sometimes it’s how u express nervousness/anxiety will all the eyes looking at you,,

Just say you hate him, but ok go on i guess? https://t.co/IU0awE63CC
— lala 💛 (@lucillecaresosa) December 15, 2023

His speech was even featured on Koreaboo with the headline “Popular Filipino Actor Faces Criticism For ‘Mocking Koreans’ At A Korean Award Show.”

Padilla has yet to comment on the issue.