Community Kim Ho-jung Fan Cafe Statement
Calls for Appropriate Punishment but Holds Grudge
Regrets Over Every Move Being Reported
Concerns Raised About Political Issue Concealment
The fandom of trot singer Kim Ho-jung (33), who is accused of fleeing the scene after causing an accident while driving under the influence in Gangnam, Seoul, and switching drivers, expressed their hope that "this was not intended to cover up political issues."
The online community DC Inside's 'Kim Ho-jung Gallery' issued a statement on the 24th saying, "Regarding the court's issuance of Kim Ho-jung's arrest warrant, fans humbly accept the judgment of the court," and added, "We would like to take this opportunity to deeply apologize once again for the social controversy caused by the wrongful actions of Kim Ho-jung and his agency. We hope Kim Ho-jung will sincerely cooperate with the investigation and receive appropriate punishment through the trial."
However, they also said, "There is a saying, 'Hate the sin, not the sinner.' We ask that you do not misunderstand the sincere feelings of fans who are anxiously supporting Kim Ho-jung to protect his 'last pride.'"
Earlier, after completing police questioning on the 21st, Kim said, "A private return home is my last switch. If this is turned off, life has no meaning. Because it is my last pride, I cannot back down," and refused to return home publicly for over five hours. He also lamented, "I will accept my punishment, but I feel like prey. Is it okay for the police to treat me like prey to this extent?"
The fandom, who said they "look forward to the day when Kim Ho-jung will rise again," concluded by expressing "deep regret over the investigation process being exposed to the media in every detail, reminiscent of a marathon live broadcast," and earnestly hoped that "the sharp blade of the investigative agencies toward Kim Ho-jung was not intended to cover up political issues."
On the 24th, Shin Young-hee, the judge in charge of warrants at the Seoul Central District Court, issued an arrest warrant after conducting a pre-arrest detention hearing for Kim, citing "concerns over evidence tampering." Although Kim refused to voluntarily submit his mobile phones, three iPhones were seized by the police, but he has not provided the passwords. When Judge Shin questioned him about this, Kim reportedly replied, "I cannot provide the passwords because they contain private information."
Kim faced a wave of criticism for continuing to perform even after admitting to drunk driving. On the 23rd, the day after the arrest warrant was requested, Kim appeared at the 'Super Classic' concert held at Seoul Olympic Park. Kim's side requested a postponement of the warrant hearing, but the court rejected it, resulting in the cancellation of his performance on the second day.
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