
The recent scandal in the Korean entertainment industry revolves around former The Boyz member Ju Hak Nyeon, as he has been embroiled in prostitution allegations.
Ju Hak Nyeon's prostitution allegations
According to reports by multiple media outlets on June 18, Ju Hak Nyeon reportedly met with former AV actress Asuka Kirara at a private bar in Tokyo, Japan, in late May. The two were reportedly seen drinking together and displaying physical intimacy. It was further alleged that Ju paid Kirara following a private encounter that same night.
The Boyz agency, One Hundred Label, reportedly discovered indications of prostitution while investigating the circumstances surrounding Ju Hak Nyeon's private life controversy. Although Ju Hak Nyeon initially denied the prostitution allegations, he is said to have admitted to them after being confronted with evidence.
As it is illegal to engage in prostitution in South Korea, Ju Hak Nyeon may face punishment under Article 21 of the Act on the Punishment of Acts of Arranging Sexual Traffic, with up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of up to 3 million KRW (~2,186 USD). Overseas prostitution is also subject to punishment.
Korean netizens' reaction
Korean netizens and fans are deeply shocked by the latest revelation since it was announced that Ju Hak Nyeon would halt activities due to personal reasons. Fans were concerned about the idol since there was no explanation for his sudden hiatus.
With the latest reports, Korean netizens have gathered in various online communities to discuss this topic, and many are expressing disappointment, shock, and disgust.
They commented:
"So he wasn't dating her, but paid her?"
"This is so gross."
"I guess the reporters all knew this beforehand."
"F*** I was The B once. This is so s***ty."
"Goodbye."
"There are so many crazy things in the world."
"Disgusting."
"Dang. Just go dating someone... why prostitution... f***."
"Please date someone normal."
"Wow... so he didn't date her, but was prostitution. That's so disgusting."
"Geez."
"All this time, fans were so worried about him."
"It must be so hard for their fans to stan them..."
"We get to see all sorts of things in K-pop these days."
"It would've been better if he were just dating someone."
"This is making me want to curse..."
"Prostitution??"
"Hul."
"What?????"
"The world has gone mad."
"These male idols... what in the..."
"If he had just been caught dating someone, then it would've been less shocking. But prostitution? Prostitution???"
"Makes me want to throw up."
"This is so gross. Gosh."
"He's so crazy."
"Of all people. Of all things. It had to be prostitution."
"I'm so shocked..."
SEE ALSO: The Boyz members leave messages to fans following Ju Hak Nyeon's controversy