The #MeToo movement takes hold in South Korea’s famed music industry.
Police on Thursday questioned two K-pop stars over interlocking sex scandals that have fascinated South Korea and prompted both men to announce they are retiring from the entertainment industry.
Seungri, a member of the superstar group Big Bang, bowed deeply at a Seoul police station before more than 100 journalists. Police said they are investigating allegations that the 28-year-old attempted to arrange illegal sexual services for his business investors.
“I once again lower my head and apologize to the people and all others who were hurt,” Seungri said before entering the police station. “I’ll faithfully undergo an investigation and give sincere answers” to police questioning, he added.
In South Korea, celebrities involved in scandals often issue public apologies even as they maintain their innocence. Seungri, whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, has denied the sexual-bribery allegation, but announced his retirement on Monday.
Earlier Thursday, fellow K-pop star Jung Joon-young, 29, came to the police station to be questioned about an allegation that he secretly filmed himself having sex with women and then shared the videos with friends in private group chats.
“I feel very sorry for causing concern to the people and will faithfully undergo an investigation,” Jung told reporters. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”
Jung said in a statement Wednesday that he recorded the videos without the consent of the women in them.
