KBS has apologized once again regarding the controversy surrounding the damage caused to Byeongsan Seowon , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during the filming of their new drama, ' First Night with the Duke '.

On January 3, KBS stated, " We deeply apologize for the damage caused to cultural property during filming at Byeongsan Seowon in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. "

The drama center manager and the producer concerned went to Byeongsan Seowon to assess the situation. They confirmed that new nails had been added to approximately 10 existing nail brands, increasing the pressure on the structure.

KBS explained, " Nails were placed in approximately ten locations, including eight beam ends at Mandaeru Pavilion and two at the beam ends of Dongjae Hall. " They also clarified, " These locations do not match the nail marks on Mandaeru's columns reported by some media outlets." KBS acknowledged the problem, saying, "Even if pre-existing nail holes were present, driving new nails and adding pressure constitutes damage to the cultural property. We sincerely apologize ."

However, they added, " Before filming, the production team received approval from the Byeongsan Seowon caretaker regarding the locations where props could be hung. Filming took place under the caretaker's supervision ."

They pledged full cooperation with the investigation, saying: " We will humbly accept the results of the police investigation and inspections conducted by Andong City and the National Heritage Administration. We will also actively cooperate in restoring the damaged areas ."

KBS also outlined future measures, saying, " We will educate external drama production teams about the invaluable heritage of Byeongsan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and strengthen our monitoring and management." Additionally, KBS announced plans to create a new set of guidelines, stating, " The guidelines will include consulting cultural heritage experts or conducting filming under the supervision of experts when filming at cultural properties, historical sites, and heritage locations ."

KBS concluded: " We sincerely apologize for causing significant concern and disappointment to the public due to the damage to cultural property during the filming of the drama. We will fully cooperate with the investigations conducted by the relevant authorities. "

The controversy began on December 30 when reports emerged that nails had been driven into the structure of Byeongsan Seowon's Mandaeru Pavilion during filming. Byeongsan Seowon, located in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.