National museum chief apologizes for misattributed artwork

The controversy began in August with the exhibition of a piece titled "Ilbansigukeun," initially presented as the work of Korean independence activist Park Won-geun. However, allegations surfaced that it was actually written by Park Jung-yang, a prominent pro-Japanese collaborator during Japan's colonial rule of Korea. A subsequent investigation by seven external experts confirmed the calligraphy was by Park Jung-yang.

It was later revealed that the misattributed piece belonged to You's personal collection. Another item owned by You and a "Stone Tiger" statue donated by his wife were also displayed at the museum. Critics have raised suspicions that exhibiting these personal items was an attempt to inflate their value, sparking widespread criticism of You's conduct.