E-Sens pushes back at dialect controversy, calls scrutiny a 'no-no'

Rapper E-Sens has expressed frustration over a controversy surrounding the use of a Gyeongsang dialect phrase by Rescene member Woni.

On Thursday, E-Sens posted on his Instagram story: "Because of Ilbe, people are now looking at my hometown dialect as something strange. I can't believe it. That's a no-no." E-Sens, who is from Gyeongsan in North Gyeongsang Province, appeared to be pushing back against unfounded speculation targeting the regional dialect.

The controversy began when Woni — a native of Geoje in South Gyeongsang Province and a promotional ambassador for the city — responded to a field producer's remark "Mwo-ya museopno?" ("What, are you scared?") with "Museopno. The lighting alone is scary" in a YouTube video on June 28. Kim Hyun-ji, a producer at MBC Gyeongnam, then claimed on social media that the expression was characteristic of Ilbe, a far-right online community, igniting the dispute. Former Rebuilding Korea Party leader Cho Kuk joined in, posting what he called a "guide to identifying Ilbe speech" on social media and drawing the spat into political circles.

However, the claims drew a sharp contrast with public reaction. Many online users rebuffed the characterization, pointing out that Woni is a native of Geoje and that the phrase is simply standard Gyeongsang dialect.

Born in 1987, E-Sens grew up entirely in Gyeongsan, North Gyeongsang Province. Since his debut in 2003, he built a following as part of the duo Supreme Team and released numerous hit songs. He continues to be regarded as one of South Korea's finest rappers, known for his distinctive flow and lyrical style.