Shinhwa member and actor Kim Dongwan ignited controversy after unexpectedly voicing support for the legalization of prostitution.
On February 17, screenshots of posts allegedly written by Kim were shared on an online community, DC Inside’s Shinhwa Gallery. In the captured thread, Kim argued that attempts to eliminate red-light districts have instead led to their spread across the country.
“Trying to abolish entertainment districts has resulted in the entire nation becoming one,” he reportedly wrote. “You can’t help but question the reality when you see such districts in front of churches, schools, and police stations. It should be acknowledged and managed. Given the rise of single-person households, we cannot simply ignore the issue or brush it aside.”
One netizen expressed strong agreement, stating, “I believe introducing a regulated public prostitution system is the right approach. Prostitution can never completely disappear due to human nature, and isn’t it already thriving beneath the surface? While some argue that sex should not be bought with money, the history of prostitution parallels the history of humanity. Demand will not vanish, so it should be legalized and managed. There also needs to be clear legal interpretation distinguishing prostitution from sexual violence.”
To this comment, Kim responded, “Could you summarize that more briefly? About four lines?” Kim further elaborated when another user expressed mixed feelings, writing, “I feel conflicted. It would be good to collect taxes, but I’m not sure if legalization is right.” Kim replied, “The reason I believe it should be legalized is that there are people who cannot engage in it without paying. It’s also necessary from a disease control perspective.”
His remarks left many fans stunned. Online reactions included comments such as, “Wow,” “He’s really gone too far,” “This is the worst nonsense I’ve ever seen,” “Can’t he change starting this new year?” and “This is dizzying.” Although Kim later deleted the posts and reportedly closed his Threads account, traces of the discussion remain accessible through search engines.
On February 19, Kim posted a lengthy statement criticizing the culture of anonymity online. “Anonymity has played a role in the past. When people had nowhere to speak, there was a need for a channel like a public petition system,” he wrote. “But it was meant to reach those in power, not to amplify mutual anger like a loudspeaker in a bamboo forest. Korea’s strong sense of homogeneity can sometimes unite us, but it can also turn into a misguided conviction. When hatred toward certain countries or races is packaged as patriotism, people feel no guilt. Now, those intoxicated by incitement are pointing knives at one another. Recent incidents have revealed how easily humans can become ugly. Anonymity has become not protection, but exemption.”
He added, “We need an era where people take responsibility for their words. It is time to coolly consider whether anonymous boards should remain as they are, or whether some form of real-name verification and authentication should be introduced.”
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