ENTERTAINMENT
SHINee's Key Steps Down from Programs Amid Illegal Medical Procedure Allegations
On the 17th, SM Entertainment, Key's agency, issued a statement saying, "We sincerely apologize for the delay in our response due to the need to communicate with various parties related to overseas tour schedules and activities."
The agency further explained, "Key was introduced to a hospital in Gangnam by an acquaintance, where he first met Mr. Lee, whom he believed to be a doctor."
They continued, "Key has been receiving treatment at the hospital and, in some cases where visiting the hospital was difficult, received home visits. He was unaware that Mr. Lee was not a licensed doctor and did not think receiving home treatment would be problematic."
SM Entertainment clarified, "Key recently became aware of the controversy surrounding Mr. Lee's medical license and is deeply reflecting on his ignorance."
Finally, they stated, "Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Key has decided to step down from his current schedules and programs. We sincerely apologize for causing concern to fans and everyone involved."
As a result, Key will be stepping down from tvN's 'Amazing Saturday,' where he has been a cast member since 2018, and MBC's 'I Live Alone,' where he has been involved for three years. There is also growing interest in whether he will step down as the MC for the 'MBC Entertainment Awards' scheduled for the 29th.
Recently, Key was at the center of controversy due to allegations of a close relationship with 'Injection Aunt' A, who is suspected of illegal medical practices. The controversy began when a photo of a dog, believed to be Key's pet, appeared on A's social media.
Official Statement from SM Entertainment
Hello, this is SM Entertainment.
We would like to address the situation regarding our artist, Key.
We sincerely apologize for the delay in our response due to the need to communicate with various parties related to overseas tour schedules and activities.
Key was introduced to a hospital in Gangnam by an acquaintance, where he first met Mr. Lee, whom he believed to be a doctor.
Key has been receiving treatment at the hospital and, in some cases where visiting the hospital was difficult, received home visits. He was unaware that Mr. Lee was not a licensed doctor and did not think receiving home treatment would be problematic.
Key recently became aware of the controversy surrounding Mr. Lee's medical license and is deeply reflecting on his ignorance.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Key has decided to step down from his current schedules and programs.
We sincerely apologize for causing concern to fans and everyone involved.
Reporter Kim Se-ah, TENASIA haesmik@tenasia.co.kr
