'Jessi Fan Assault' Victim: "Jessi's Group Seemed Like a Korean Gang"

Criticism of Gestures and Arm Tattoos
Police Accelerate Investigation into Assault Case

There has been a claim that the assailant involved in the incident where a fan who requested a photo from singer Jessi was assaulted by Jessi's entourage may belong to a 'Korean gang.'

Earlier, in the early hours of the 29th of last month in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a minor fan approached Jessi, and a man near Jessi assaulted him. On the 14th, JTBC's incident chief reported that the man is a producer and rapper known by the nickname 'XXX.' This man has participated in the production of several of Jessi's albums.

Singer Jessi Photo by P NATION

The broadcast also stated that it received a tip suggesting this man might be affiliated with a Korean gang. The assault victim also claimed on the broadcast that the man's behavior at the time of the incident was like that of a "gangster," and his gestures were similar to those of organized crime members.

However, it has not been confirmed whether this man is actually from a gang. Jessi's agency also stated, "He only worked with Jessi on a few music projects," and added, "Jessi has no connection to any gang, and we have no knowledge of the man being part of a gang."

The moment of the assault. [Image source=KBS broadcast capture]

Meanwhile, on the 12th, Jessi apologized to the assault victim through her Instagram. She said, "While having a private gathering with acquaintances, a fan who is a victim requested a photo from me, but I politely declined twice because it was late at night," and added, "At that moment, the fan was suddenly assaulted by a person nearby whom I met for the first time that day."

She continued, "Regardless of the circumstances, I deeply regret that my fan suffered an unfortunate incident and feel a moral responsibility," and added, "I am making efforts to ensure that the perpetrator receives appropriate punishment."

Regarding this, the assault victim's side expressed anger, saying, "We are furious that Jessi said the perpetrator was 'someone she met for the first time that day,'" and claimed, "The perpetrator was next to Jessi's entourage, and Jessi tried to grab his arm when she saw him approaching."

Meanwhile, the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul is reportedly considering summoning and investigating those present at the assault scene, including Jessi, one by one on the 14th. According to Yonhap News, the police have been speeding up the investigation, including summoning Koala as a suspect for questioning on the 11th.