From being one of the most respected first-gen K-pop icons and founder of YG Entertainment, Yang Hyun Suk met his downfall when his wrongdoings were exposed in 2019.

Three years after his multiple controversies, where is he now?

(Photo : Yang Hyun Suk (News1))

1992 - 2021: Yang Hyun Suk's Career in Seo Taiji & Boys, YG Entertainment, Controversies

In 1991, Yang Hyun Suk first rose to fame as Seo Taiji & Boys, the first-ever K-pop group in South Korea. At that time, the group rose as one of the most influential personalities not only in the music scene but they also imprinted an impact on the abolishment of pre-censorship law.

Despite the fame, the K-pop icons disbanded in 1996 and pursued their solo careers. Yang Hyun Sul founded his own agency YG Entertainment, one of the biggest agencies under "BIG 3" (hereinafter "BIG4").

He reigned as the "Father" of top-tier K-pop groups and artists including Jinusean, 1TYM, Wheesung, Gummy, Seven, BIGBANG, 2NE1, WINNER, iKON, Tablo, Epik High, Lee Hi, BLACKPINK, TREASURE, and Psy.

(Photo : Yang Hyun Suk (News1))

ALSO READ: Yang Hyun Suk Denies Charges of Coercion and Attempting to Cover Up B.I's Drug Investigation in First Trial

His status as one of the most respected artists continued not until 2019. He was accused of covering up former iKON's B.I drug use investigation. Prior to being summoned by the police, he stepped down as the CEO of YG Entertainment.

In 2021, he was fined 15 million won for his sexual favors charges and gambling abroad.

Yang Hyun Suk in 2022: YG Founder Spotted Supporting TREASURE, Criticized for 'No Mask' Appearance

(Photo : Yang Hyun Suk (News1))

After a long time without updates about him, Yang Hyun Suk was spotted on April 10 at Olympic Hall in Olympic Park in Songpa-gu Seoul. He was seen watching TREASURE's first concert, the youngest group in the agency.

After the concert, a photo of Yang Hyun Suk sitting on a console watching the performance spread through the online community. However, the picture became controversial because he did not wear a mask.

According to the rules for watching the concert related to the prevention of COVID-19, all attendees must wear masks and those who will violate this are subjected to exit. Activities that can spread saliva, such as standing up and singing in chorus, are also prohibited. Audiences who violate this may be subjected to leave.

YG also stated on the performance information page, "Audiences who violate quarantine rules can be expelled."

(Photo : Yang Hyun Suk (News1))

As a result, there is a negative public opinion over YG's special treatment for Yang Hyun Suk for violating the quarantine rules.

It is unfortunate that after being notable and respected for a long time, Yang's value in the entertainment scene decreases due to multiple controversies. Even after supporting his agency's group, the public interest was only focused on another issue involving him.

READ MORE: Yang Hyun Suk Criticized for Breaking COVID-19 Rule at TREASURE's Concert

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Written by Eunice Dawson