South Korean entertainer Key, a member of the popular K-pop group SHINee, has announced a suspension of his professional activities, including resigning from multiple television shows, after admitting to receiving unauthorized medical services from an unlicensed provider implicated in a recent scandal involving fellow entertainer Park Na-rae. The revelation came days after the initial reports surfaced, prompting the artist to sever ties with the embattled provider and apologize for his unwitting role in the controversy surrounding illicit health treatments.
The scandal centers on a non-licensed individual, identified as Mr. Lee, who allegedly administered illegal intravenous nutritional drips and other medical procedures. Comedian Park Na-rae first came under scrutiny following accusations from a former manager regarding workplace issues and delayed production payments, which then led to the exposure of her use of Lee’s unauthorized medical services. Park also temporarily ceased professional work amid the mounting pressure.
Admission and Apology
Key, whose birth name is Kim Ki-bum, addressed the intense public interest on Wednesday, explaining that his delayed response was necessitated by the complex logistics of coordinating with organizers of his overseas concert tour and related activities. He confirmed that he was introduced to Mr. Lee through an acquaintance and subsequently visited his facility in Seoul’s affluent Gangnam District for treatment.
Crucially, the K-pop idol admitted to also receiving injections at his residence, acknowledging that he “did not consider the potential problems” associated with in-home medical procedures, especially since the provider did not raise any objections. He claimed ignorance regarding the provider’s lack of professional licensure until the recent public reports.
“I am deeply sorry for my ignorance,” Key stated, acknowledging the severity of the situation. “I only realized the gravity of accepting treatment at home or from someone who is not a registered healthcare professional after this incident came to light.”
Resignations and Hiatus
In a swift move demonstrating accountability, Key has pulled back from his major hosting and variety roles. To reflect the seriousness of the ethical breach, he has decided to step down from the cast of two popular variety shows: the reality program “I Live Alone” and “Amazing Saturday.”
Furthermore, the artist has relinquished his upcoming role as a host for the highly anticipated MBC Entertainment Awards, scheduled for December 29. Key’s personal YouTube channel programming will also enter a temporary hiatus.
This incident has cast a spotlight on the often shadowy world of celebrity wellness and the reliance on unofficial services. South Korean law mandates that only certified medical professionals can administer injections or specialized health treatments.
Implications for Public Trust
The widespread coverage of this scandal serves as a stark reminder to public figures—and the general public—about adhering to established medical standards and the inherent risks of seeking services from unverified sources. Unlicensed medical practice poses significant health and safety risks, from improper sterile techniques to the administration of inappropriate substances.
While the investigation into Mr. Lee continues, the decisions by Key and Park Na-rae to pause their careers underscore the high premium placed on ethical conduct and legal compliance within South Korea’s highly scrutinized entertainment industry. Industry observers suggest that their transparent handling of the situation, though delayed, is a critical step toward rebuilding public confidence. Further updates regarding the legal proceedings against the unlicensed provider are expected in the coming weeks.
