Overcoming K-Pop Scandals: Gradual Returns Amid Divided Public Opinion

K-pop idols are attempting to return to the stage after facing various scandals. However, the barrier posed by public opinion remains high, and with mixed reactions from fans and the general public, intense debates have emerged over what truly constitutes “overcoming a scandal.”

Key, a member of SHINee, suffered greatly from a “injector scandal” at the end of last year. He allegedly received mucosal injection treatments from an unlicensed practitioner. Key claimed he met this woman through a friend at a hospital in Gangnam without knowing she lacked medical qualifications. After more than 10 days of silence, SM Entertainment issued a statement, and Key apologized directly via Instagram. He also left two long-running variety shows, “I Live Alone” and “Amazing Saturday.”

After six months of silence, Key announced his official return on June 1 as part of SHINee’s group comeback album “Atmos.” Yet fan reactions were divided. Some fans believed sufficient time had passed and that his withdrawal from the two major variety shows demonstrated he had taken responsibility. On the other hand, other fans continued to criticize him, even using terms like “brazen return.”

The case of Amane Yua, who left the Japanese idol group iLiFE!, is different. On May 2, 2023, the imaginate agency announced her immediate departure due to “serious contract violations.” At the time, 16-year-old Yua was involved in rumors of a romantic relationship and infidelity with an adult fan who worked as staff at a performance venue. This staff member, enraged, released their KakaoTalk conversations.

Breaking three years of silence, Yua was officially announced as a new member of the six-year-established Japanese J-pop girl group TENRIN on May 8. She posted an introduction on X (Twitter), and within 8 hours, she gained over 50,000 followers. Her new appearance, new group, and preparations for a fresh start show a clear difference from her past.

Meanwhile, the situation of actor and idol Cha Eunwoo is more complicated. Media reports revealed that he reduced his tax burden by using a shell company under his mother’s name during his military service. Cha Eunwoo issued a public apology and settled legal matters by paying tax debts and fines. The issue coincided with the release date of his new drama “The WONDERfools” on Netflix.

Director Yoo In-sik addressed this controversy at a production announcement event on May 12. He said, “I became aware of this issue only after editing and post-production were completed,” adding that it was “an individual problem of the actor.” He continued, “This project was my dream, and everyone worked hard,” explaining that he prioritized overall quality during post-production.

In the K-pop and entertainment industry, a “return” after a scandal is not merely about returning to stage performances. It involves a complex process that includes managing public opinion, restoring fan trust, and reestablishing relationships with the industry. Key attempts to overcome his situation through group protection, Yua by joining a new agency and transforming her image, and Cha Eunwoo by completing legal responsibilities and gaining support from the director. Yet, it is widely believed that without public judgment and shifting public opinion, such returns cannot truly be considered successful.