[ Asia Economy ] The band Jannabi (Choi Jung-hoon, Kim Do-hyung) is facing controversy as it was belatedly revealed that they collaborated with former member Yoo Young-hyun, who left the team due to past school violence accusations. In response to fans’ protests, the agency apologized, saying, “We apologize for disappointing with inadequate response.”
According to the music industry on the 25th, Yoo Young-hyun, who left Jannabi due to a school violence controversy, had been working as the band’s sound engineer and collaborating in performances and rehearsals until recently.
As the controversy arose, Peponi Music’s representative Choi Jung-jun stated on the Jannabi fan cafe, “Peponi Music will no longer proceed with Yoo Young-hyun’s audio assistant matter,” adding, “The process of delivering this matter to fans was not appropriate. Also, our incorrect judgment and inadequate response disappointed many fans.”
He continued, “We never intended to hide or conceal this matter from the beginning. However, there were ongoing issues related to Yoo Young-hyun’s previous issues, so we intended to explain more thoroughly after those matters were resolved.” He clarified that claims regarding Yoo Young-hyun’s involvement in Jannabi’s music work or participation in previous album work are not true. The agency also announced plans for legal action against indiscriminate false information.
Jannabi member Choi Jung-hoon also stated, “I apologize for trying to embrace him as staff through inappropriate processes.”
Meanwhile, Jannabi was formed in 2011 by Choi Jung-hoon, Kim Do-hyung, and Yoo Young-hyun and became a five-member group in 2015 with the addition of Jang Kyung-joon and Yoon Kyul. In 2019, Yoo Young-hyun admitted to school violence and left the team. Yoon Kyul was also conditionally released in 2021 after being charged with female assault and left the team. Jang Kyung-joon stopped team activities after marriage, and currently, Choi Jung-hoon and Kim Do-hyung continue Jannabi activities as a duo.
Reporter Hermi Dam damdam@asiae.co.kr
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