With Lee Jae Myung elected as South Korea’s new president, attention has turned to celebrity reactions—particularly that of outspoken singer JK Kim Dong Wook, who has long made bold political statements and supported former People Power Party candidate Kim Moon Soo.
On June 3rd KST, shortly before midnight, JK Kim Dong Wook posted on social media:
“In the end, it leads to a result where I have to include songs that were never meant to be included.”
He continued, “Maybe that sense of unease is why I naturally wrote those songs. I think from now on, I’ll be singing more about the world we shouldn’t have to face, rather than love. Good night.”
He later added the phrase “How does it feel.”
Around the same time, South Korea’s three major networks (KBS, MBC, and SBS) projected Lee Jae Myung as the winner of the presidential election. At 11:46 PM, the president-elect left his home in Incheon’s Gyeyang District to greet supporters at the Democratic Party headquarters in Yeouido.
JK Kim Dong Wook, a Korean-Canadian with no voting rights in South Korea, had previously expressed support for Kim Moon Soo. On election day, he posted, “Good morning. Time 2 save the country together,” deliberately using the number “2” in “together” as a subtle nod to his political stance.
He has made numerous pro-conservative remarks, including “Protecting the president is protecting the country! Prosecution reform—who?” in opposition to former president Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. After the impeachment, he continued, “To our 2030 generation, applause for standing against this anti-national impeachment,” and added, “I truly fear Korea might collapse faster than the world expects.”
When actor Lee Dong Wook voiced support for protesters, JK Kim Dong Wook lashed out:
“It’s a common name, but I’ve never been more embarrassed to share it.” He later added hashtags like #JustAnyFoolDoesPolitics, mocking celebrity political commentary.
In March, after Lee Jae Myung was acquitted of violating election laws, JK wrote, “I guess it’s all about meeting the right judge. A country full of political trash and no law.” He also criticized singer Lee Seung Hwan for attending a wildfire relief event and candlelight rally, writing, “Nothing to boast about as a musician. It’s pathetic to take photos while the nation bleeds.”
He also commented on recent controversies over celebrities wearing red—associated with a specific party—saying, “I know many idols who lean right. Let them flash a V sign in front of fans. It’s sad that even that becomes a dilemma.”
Earlier this year, a citizen announced plans to file a complaint against JK Kim Dong Wook for violating restrictions on foreign nationals’ political activities. The complaint cited his pro-impeachment opposition posts, participation in protests near the presidential residence, and public comments despite holding Canadian citizenship.
Under Korean law, foreign nationals are prohibited from engaging in political activity. The Minister of Justice may issue an order to stop such activities or take other necessary actions.
In response to the complaint, JK Kim Dong Wook defended himself:
“Since when did a free Republic of Korea become a place that suppresses freedom of expression?” He explained he was born in Seoul, dropped out of Daejin High School, and later immigrated to Canada.
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