Singer Jessi Faces Crisis as Independent Label Plans Collapse Amid Fan Assault Controversy

Singer Jessi finds herself in a crisis as plans for her independent label fall apart amid a controversy over her alleged inaction during a fan assault incident.

DOD, the label and management company that had signed a contract with Jessi, announced on the 18th, "We apologize once again for the recent unfortunate news that has caused concern. After extensive discussions about future activities, Jessi requested to terminate the exclusive contract as of October 18, 2024."

Last month, on the 20th, Jessi had signed a label and management contract with DOD and announced the establishment of her independent label, UNNI, marking a new beginning. UNNI was intended to be a corporation for Jessi's independent activities, aligning with her musical preferences, but it ultimately fell through.

Jessi recently became embroiled in controversy over her alleged inaction during a fan assault incident. According to police, in the early hours of the 29th of last month, a minor fan in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, was assaulted by a man in Jessi's entourage after requesting a photo with her. Jessi was seen making gestures to stop the fight but then left the scene. Furthermore, when the police arrived following the victim's report, they questioned Jessi's entourage about the assailant's whereabouts, but they reportedly claimed ignorance.

Regarding the assailant, Jessi's side stated, "He is Chinese," and distanced themselves by saying, "We have no connection, and he is a friend of a producer close to Jessi." During the police investigation, Jessi reportedly expressed a desire for the assailant to be found and punished quickly, but when asked by reporters if it was her first time seeing the assailant on the day of the incident, she replied, "It was my first time."

However, Jessi is facing intense criticism for not actively intervening to stop the assault on the fan and for her lukewarm response, claiming ignorance about the assailant.

Additionally, Koala, a producer close to Jessi, is also under scrutiny for allegedly pushing the victim's stomach and head during the incident, with his identity being circulated. Koala is a producer and rapper who has participated in the production of several of Jessi's albums, including 'What Type of X,' 'Cold Blooded,' and 'NUNU NANA.' He has previously stated about his relationship with Jessi, "We are friends before colleagues, and I support her." Koala is currently appearing on TVING's 'Rap Public.'

Jessi, along with Koala and three others present at the scene, have been charged with assault by the victim. Jessi, in particular, has been accused of concealing and aiding the escape of the perpetrator. Koala was summoned for questioning as a suspect on the 11th.

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