Shinhwa member and actor Kim Dong Wan has once again found himself at the center of controversy after publicly arguing for the legalization of prostitution.
Recently, a screenshot of a post from Kim Dong Wan’s social media thread was shared on the online community DC Inside.
In the post, he wrote, “While trying to eliminate red-light districts, the entire country is becoming one,” adding, “You can’t help but question why entertainment districts exist in front of churches, schools, and even police stations.”
He continued, “We need to acknowledge and regulate it,” emphasizing that ignoring the reality of increasing single-person households and simply sweeping the issue under the rug is not a solution.
When one netizen expressed strong agreement, saying that introducing a state-regulated prostitution system would be appropriate, Kim replied, “Could you explain that more briefly? In about four lines?”
In response to another user who voiced doubts about legalization, Kim Dong Wan reiterated his stance, stating, “There are people who cannot do it without paying. It’s also a matter of disease control,” underscoring what he sees as the need for legalization.
As his remarks became widely known, online reactions were sharply divided.
Some fans responded critically, with comments such as, “He’s really gone too far,” “This is the worst nonsense I’ve ever heard,” “Can’t he please change starting this new year?” and “This is honestly unsettling.”
Others, however, voiced support, saying, “He’s not entirely wrong,” “Legalize it to secure tax revenue and curb sexually transmitted diseases,” and “Western countries and Japan are already doing this.”
Amid the growing backlash, Kim Dong Wan reportedly shut down his Threads account.
The controversy has also reignited discussion of his past remarks. In 2021, Kim faced heavy criticism after publicly defending singer Lee Soo, who had previously suspended activities due to a prostitution-related offense. At the time, Kim Dong Wan wrote that “People are too quick to cancel someone,” but deleted the post after facing significant backlash.
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