Singer and actor Kim Dong-wan is facing increased criticism after his pro-legalization comments on prostitution resurfaced online. His statement has led to debate and more scrutiny of his past defense of singer Lee Soo.
Kim, who is in the K-pop group Shinhwa, recently posted on social media that prostitution should be legal and regulated. Online communities quickly spread the post before its removal.
MK said that Kim wrote, "In an attempt to eliminate entertainment districts, the entire country is becoming one," and added, "We need to acknowledge and manage it."
He also questioned where these districts should be, saying,"I can't help but question the entertainment districts in front of churches, schools, and police stations. We can't just ignore the growing number of single-person households and say, 'Let's just ignore this.'"
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He also talked about the problem from a public health perspective, saying, "There are people who can't have sex without paying."
The comments quickly started a debate online, with some people saying that regulation should be openly discussed and others calling the comments rude. Later, Kim took down the post and shut down his social media accounts.
Naver says that the renewed controversy has also brought back to light Kim's previous defense of Lee Soo, a member of M.C. the Max, who was investigated in 2009 for allegedly prostituting a minor while working as a public service worker. Lee admitted to prostitution but said he didn't know the person was underage. He was given a suspended indictment.
Kim posted a picture of Lee singing on "I Am a Singer" and asked,"When will I be able to hear it? Lee Soo's voice heard from the audience."
As more and more people criticized him, Kim later wrote an apology by hand. In that statement, he said,"Drinking too much clouded my judgment, and I have disappointed and hurt many people."
Kim has spoken out about social issues in the past, saying things like "youth suicide rates should be considered before birth rate concerns." But his most recent comments have gotten more backlash because of how sensitive prostitution laws and past scandals are.
Originally published on Kdrama Stars
