[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] Rapper Owen, who caused controversy after being found guilty of marijuana smoking, will withdraw from Mnet's 'Show Me the Money 9,' in which he was appearing.
On the 20th, Mnet announced, "Owen will withdraw from 'Show Me the Money 9,' and the first episode featuring him will also be edited."
According to media reports the previous day, in September last year, five rappers including Owen, Nafla, Loopy, Young West, and Blue, all affiliated with the hip-hop label Maket Rain Records, were booked and handed over to the prosecution on charges of violating the Narcotics Control Act.
They are accused of smoking marijuana at their agency's studio and other locations between August and September last year. Considering that Owen is a first-time offender, he received a suspended indictment.
After the marijuana smoking allegations became known, Maket Rain issued an official statement on social media the previous day, saying, "All Maket Rain members acknowledge their wrongdoing, sincerely regret it, and are deeply reflecting. The agency also feels a heavy responsibility for this unfortunate incident," adding, "The agency has prepared measures to prevent recurrence and internal disciplinary plans and will respond strongly in the future."
Owen appeared on the first broadcast of 'Show Me the Money 9' on the 16th and received favorable reviews after passing the first preliminary round.
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