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The Burning Sun scandal was a major controversy that shook South Korea's entertainment industry in 2019. The scandal led to the imprisonment of some K-pop idols and the dismissal of others from their groups.
The investigations began after a series of assault and corruption allegations erupted in 2019. The allegations involved the Burning Sun nightclub in Seoul, which was co-owned by former BigBang member Seungri. Accusations later expanded to involve prostitution, drug use, and police corruption. They led to the implication of several high-profile celebrities who filmed and shared sex videos without the consent of the victims.
It's now been six years since the scandal. Here's an update on where the K-pop idols involved in the controversy are now.
Seungri
One of the most prominent figures involved in the scandal was Seungri, a former member of the K-pop group BigBang. He was charged with various crimes, including pimping and procuring prostitution services, and was sentenced to one year and six months in prison.
Seungri was released from prison in February 2023 and has since maintained a low profile. That said, it was reported that he was trying to open a nightclub.
Jung Joo-young
Jung Joon-young was convicted of secretly filming and sharing sex videos without consent. He was initially sentenced to six years in prison but had his sentence reduced to five years after expressing regret. Jung was released from prison in March 2024 and was spotted in France, where he expressed interest in opening a Korean restaurant. His attempts to return to the music industry have been met with public criticism, with many feeling that he has not changed his behavior.
Choi Jong-hoon
Choi Jong-hoon of F.T. Island was convicted of gang rape and sentenced to two years and six months in prison. However, his sentence was reduced, and he was released in November 2021. In 2024, Choi announced plans to return to the entertainment industry.
Yong Jun-hyung
Yong Hyung of Highlight admitted to viewing an illegal video shared by Jung Joon-young. He claimed the video was not unlawful in itself but was shared without consent. He left Highlight in 2019 and has since returned to music, releasing an album in 2022. Jun-hyung has also married HyunA, another K-pop artist.
Lee Jong-hyun
Lee Jong-hyun admitted to viewing Jung's sex videos and making disparaging remarks about women. He left CNBLUE and has since maintained a private lifestyle after completing his military service.
Roy Kim
Lee Jong-hyun admitted to viewing Jung's sex videos and making disparaging remarks about women. He left CNBLUE and has since maintained a private lifestyle after completing his military service.
Eddy Kim
Eddy Kim's indictment was suspended, and he is set to return to music. Although details about his current activities are limited, he is expected to make a comeback in the industry.
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