The decision came after news of the scandal spread on social media on Monday. Prostitution is illegal in South Korea. The charges against Seungri carry a prison sentence of up to three years. He has denied the allegations. Police are also investigating claims that the Burning Sun nightclub, where Seungri was a public relations director, was involved in illegal drug use, sexual assaults and police corruption, Yonhap reported.
Seungri is not the first member of Big Bang to have made the headlines for the wrong reasons. In , G-Dragon was caught smoking marijuana during a concert tour of Japan, and in , rapper TOP received a month suspended sentence for marijuana use. Seungri, whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, wrote on his Instagram account that he had decided to quit the pop industry. As for the ongoing investigation, I will take it seriously to clear myself of all the allegations.
The investigation has prompted speculation the singer will be unable to begin his national service this month. All able-bodied South Korean men aged must serve for a minimum of 21 months, a measure seen as a deterrent against North Korean aggression. Seungri was due to enrol on 25 March but could ask for a deferment while he addresses the allegations.
Police have said they would still be able to conduct their investigation while Seungri is serving in the army, and military officials have said the singer would have to submit a written request for deferment.
The quintet, who have sold more than m records since their debut, are taking a break while three of them carry out military service. Seungri has cancelled the remaining dates in his solo tour. Much of the reaction to his arrest has been damning, with some fans calling for him to be kicked out of the band. But some fans pledged their support for the singer. Topics South Korea. K-pop Asia Pacific Pop and rock news. Reuse this content. Most popular.
