Controversial Incident Leads to Editing Out of Rapper Koala from TV Show 'Rap:Public'

The rapper and producer Koala, who was involved in a controversy surrounding the alleged assault of a fan by singer Jessi's entourage, will be edited out of the TVING show 'Rap:Public'.

On the 25th, the production team of 'Rap:Public' confirmed to TenAsia that "from episode 4 onwards, Koala's appearances have been edited out of the episodes released so far. Future episodes will also be edited accordingly."

Koala is closely linked to the controversy involving Jessi's alleged inaction during the assault of a fan. According to police reports, on the 29th of last month, a minor fan was assaulted by a male member of Jessi's entourage in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, after requesting a photo with the singer. CCTV footage showed Jessi making gestures to stop the fight but then leaving the scene. When police arrived following the victim's report, Jessi claimed she did not know the assailant.

Subsequent CCTV footage revealed that another individual, identified as Koala, was involved in the incident, pushing the victim's stomach and threatening them by leaning his head in. Koala is not free from assault charges, as he was the first to threaten the victim. Additionally, Koala has a tattoo that reads 'Korean Outlaws', raising suspicions about his involvement with a violent gang.

Koala has been a significant contributor to Jessi's albums, including 'What Type of X', 'Cold Blooded', and 'NUNU NANA', and shares a close relationship with the singer.

Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr