Magicians Cry Foul Over KBS TV Program
By Kim Tae-jong
Staff Reporter
A magician in a pierrot costume stood at the front gate of the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) in Yeouido, Seoul last Friday. But instead of showing off his tricks to amuse passersby, he was engaged in picketing one of the broadcaster's programs.
In the one-man-protest, professional magician Kim Ju-yeob claimed that the broadcaster's show, ``Sponge 2.0,'' had unveiled secrets behind magic tricks, threatening the profession.
His sign read, ``How could a public television network under public support ruin a profession? KBS should stop airing the program that reveals the secrets of magic.'' Other magicians are set to join the relay rally.
The infotainment program, launching a new season this spring is running a section where a professional magician explains the secret behind certain tricks.
In the beginning, the makers of the program said the revelation aims to revitalize the popularity of magic shows by fulfilling the audience's curiosity. Regarding the fierce opposition, however, the program producers have yet to respond.
Local magicians argued that the revelations worry magicians, who claim the program has actually decreased people's interest in magic.
The bulletin board of the show's official Web site is filled with angry comments by local magicians and magic enthusiasts who denounce the revelation of magic tricks.
``It's just a ruthless move to increase viewer ratings,'' magician Choi Hyun-woo told The Korea Times. ``The secrets of magic tricks should be protected for the sake of viewers as well as magicians.''
Choi found himself in additional trouble as the magician in the television show shares his name.
``We are now seeking collective action against the program. We'll soon hold a news conference and protest by magicians,'' he said.
Choi also warned that the Society of American Magicians is also taking legal action against the program as most of the revealed tricks are licensed to its members.