SHINee’s Key breaks silence over illegal medical treatment controversy
SHINee's Key / Courtesy of SM Entertainment
SHINee’s Key has spoken out after becoming embroiled in controversy over alleged illegal medical procedures linked to a woman known as the ‘injection aunt,’ who is accused of practicing medicine without a license. He said he received treatment believing she was a licensed doctor and expressed deep regret over his ignorance.
SM Entertainment, Key’s agency, released an official statement on Wednesday addressing the allegations involving the woman, identified only as Lee.
The agency apologized for the delay in responding. “Due to the need to communicate with various parties related to overseas tour schedules and activities, it was difficult to issue a prompt statement, and we sincerely apologize for that.”
According to SM, Key was first introduced to Lee through an acquaintance and met her at a hospital in Seoul’s Gangnam District, believing her to be a doctor. “Key continued to receive treatment at the hospital, and in recent situations where visiting the hospital was difficult, he received treatment at home on several occasions,” the agency said, acknowledging that Key did receive medical procedures from Lee.
SM emphasized that Key was unaware Lee lacked a medical license. “He believed Lee was a doctor, and as there was no indication otherwise, he did not think receiving treatment at home would be an issue,” the agency said. “Key only recently learned of the controversy surrounding Lee’s medical license and is extremely confused. He is deeply reflecting on his own ignorance.”
In light of the seriousness of the issue, Key has decided to voluntarily step down from his scheduled activities and program appearances.
“We once again sincerely apologize to fans and everyone else for causing concern," the agency added.
Key also addressed the controversy directly through social media the same day. “I sincerely apologize for causing many people concern with various stories related to me recently,” he said. “I was also confused and taken aback by newly learned facts, and I am sorry that I could not organize my position and share how I would move forward more quickly.”
He continued, “I had believed I could keep myself distant from situations like this, but that confidence seems to have prevented me from looking more wisely at my surroundings. I feel deeply sorry and ashamed toward those who trusted and supported me.”
Key concluded by saying, “I will sincerely do everything I can regarding this matter. I will take time to reflect on myself and my surroundings once again. I am truly sorry.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.