Many Filipinos became furious after watching Lee Da Hae, a Korean actress and commercial model in her guest appearance in one of the talk shows of Korean Broadcasting System (KBS).
In the episode, Lee Da Hae tried to imitate how her American, British and Filipino teachers speak English by saying, "Excuse me. I'm a little bit thirsty. Can I have a glass of water please?"
It is evident that after she said the sentences in American and British accents, she intentionally made it sound very insulting as she tried to copy the way her Filipino teacher speaks the sentences. As for me, her imitation of all the accents is not credible or commendable and a total failure! She tried so hard and just wasted her effort!
Lee Da Hae was part of the Koreanovela, "East of Eden" which is currently shown on GMA 7.
This is Lee Da Hae's complete explanation about the incident:
"First, I'd like to give you my sincere apologies for what seems to be a misunderstanding.
"It has come to my attention that many of you from the Philippines have posted comments protesting that i was being derisive by mimicking Filipinos when they speak English.
"Therefore, in light of this matter I'd like to take this opportunity to clear the air.
"In spite of what many people believe, I myself did NOT mention anything about the Philippines or Filipino accent whilst on the TV show.
"On the other hand, I recall bringing up Southeast Asia and not the Philippines, and the subtitles were inserted when the show was being edited, of which I was not aware of until it was aired.
"The TV show where this footage was taken from was designed to amuse its audience and my sole purpose was to entertain the viewers by coming up with lighthearted stories.
"Since the producer knows that i speak English he asked me if I could share any episodes that touch upon the English language.
"As we all know every country has a typical accent when its people speak English (including myself) so after giving it some thought, I came up with a few lines where I simply tried to compare different English accents: the somewhat rigid British accent and beginners in Southeast Asia whose English tends to be a little hard-edged. No pun or ridicule was intended.
"As an individual who used to take English classes over the phone with a Filipino instructor, I give you my word that even the mere thought of mocking Filipinos would never cross my mind.
"I cannot tell you how much Filipino fans mean to me and as much as I love them, I would in no way hurt or upset them.
"I hope I have clarified any misunderstandings and once again I am truly sorry if I inadvertently hurt anyone's feelings.
"I really love you, my Filipino fans."
Well, it's all for you to decide! I felt very much insulted! Don't you think that it is just right to be grateful to your English teacher no matter what accent he/she has because you owe him/her a lot for the development of your English abilities? Clearly, that is something Lee Da Hae should learn!
