Broadcaster Kim Gu Ra and his son MC Gree (real name Kim Dong Hyun) have addressed controversy over an alleged violation of the “prohibition on profit-making activities by soldiers” on the day of MC Gree’s discharge.
On February 14 KST, a video titled “Salute! MC Gree greets you after a long time” was uploaded to their YouTube channel. In the clip, Kim Gu Ra explained the situation surrounding the debate.
He said, “There was some controversy. People usually think that once you pass the guard post at 9 AM on discharge day, you’re a civilian. But under Ministry of National Defense regulations, until 12 PM that day, you are still considered to hold military status in some respects.”
MC Gree added, “If something happens on discharge day, you can still be tried under military law. The rule exists so discharged soldiers don’t act recklessly thinking they are completely free.”
The controversy stemmed from MC Gree’s appearance on 'Radio Star' on the same day he was discharged. Some viewers questioned whether this violated the rule banning profit-making activities by active-duty personnel.
MC Gree clarified, “Soldiers are not allowed to engage in outside profit-making activities, but my appearance on ‘Radio Star’ was filmed with prior approval from my unit. I think the misunderstanding arose because that detail wasn’t widely known.”
Kim Gu Ra also stressed that filming near or around a military base would not have been possible without official permission, adding that all proper procedures were followed.
The Marine Corps similarly stated that the appearance was conducted in accordance with approval procedures under defense publicity regulations.
MC Gree drew attention by appearing in the studio in his Marine uniform and formally reporting his discharge to his father on air. While the episode aired without issue, online speculation later fueled debate over a possible breach of military law.
MC Gree also addressed criticism about alleged “father’s privilege.” He admitted, “It’s true that having my father made it easier to appear,” but added that the production team also wanted that particular dynamic for the show.
Kim Gu Ra noted that he had not pre-arranged the discharge-day filming and only learned about it afterward. Gree explained that he accepted the offer because he thought it would be meaningful for his first broadcast after service to be ‘Radio Star’.
After completing 549 days of service in the Marine Corps, MC Gree concluded his military duty having been selected as an exemplary Marine and receiving multiple commendations.
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