Should You Keep Your Wedding Photos? A Couple’s Dilemma Amidst Controversial Claims by Top Photographer

Translation result [Herald Economy=Reporter Jang Yoon-woo] When a wedding photographer’s views on historical events sparked controversy, he posted his response on social media.

On April 26, photographer A uploaded screenshots of the story circulating online to his Instagram, writing, “The April 3 incident was harm inflicted on Jeju residents by spy-rioters. The May 18 uprising was an attempt by North Korean special agents to overthrow the state. Martial law is, naturally, a form of enlightenment.” He added, “If I speak the truth, does that make me far-right? I was born and raised in a patriotic, military family and hold what I believe is the correct view of the nation.”

Earlier, the online community TheQ published a thread about a newlywed couple arguing over what to do with their wedding photos. The bride, identified as B, said, “We paid a lot to hire a top-tier wedding photographer, but my husband wants to throw all the photos away.” According to B, the photographer, identified as Mr. Park, has repeatedly posted on social media alleging election fraud, defending emergency martial law, and describing the Jeju April 3 and Gwangju May 18 incidents as uprisings led by North Korean agents.

B said, “I don’t think we can get a refund for this, and since we didn’t end up with zero photos after paying so much, I think we should keep them.” She added that a large print is displayed in their living room.

Online reactions were divided. Some users sided with the husband, saying, “I’d understand his position—seeing those photos would be upsetting.” Others responded, “What did the photos ever do? Store them out of sight.” Still others argued, “They’re not divorced; there’s no reason to throw them away.”

That day, photographer A also posted a separate video of a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, commenting, “Right-wing trait: prioritize strengthening individuals and the nation so they can include and enlighten the left. Left-wing trait: extremely violent and actually kills the right.”

The Jeju 4·3 Peace Foundation, the May 18 Memorial Foundation, and Gwangju City have received multiple complaints accusing Mr. Park of distorting history.