K-pop star Jessi has issued a second public apology on Instagram following a controversial incident involving the assault of an 18-year-old fan.
Yes, a second public apology.
Here’s what happened.
K-pop Star Jessi Made Emotional Apology After Her Fan Was Assaulted While Requesting for a Photograph
The incident occurred on 29 September in Apgujeong, Seoul, when a young fan approached Jessi requesting a photograph.
After she politely declined the request twice, one of her acquaintances suddenly assaulted the fan, striking the fan in the face.
The situation gained significant media attention when JTBC’s Crime Chief reported the assault on 11 October.
Initially, Jessi claimed she did not know the assailant, stating it was someone she had met for the first time that night, but still apologised for the incident.
However, this claim has been met with skepticism, as speculation arose suggesting the assailant might be a Taiwanese American with prior connections to her.
Second Apology That is Much, Much Longer
On 23 October, Jessi posted a lengthy apology on Instagram, taking full responsibility for the incident and its aftermath.
View this post on Instagram
In her emotional statement, she expressed deep remorse for her actions, attitude, and lack of appropriate response, acknowledging that she had caused pain and betrayal to both the victim and others.
She specifically mentioned regretting not taking the photo with the fan, failing to protect him more actively, not immediately reporting to the police, and not offering a proper apology sooner.
The controversy has had significant professional consequences for Jessi. Her agency, DOD, terminated their contract with her on 18 October. Additionally, the situation has led to severe backlash, with the artist receiving malicious comments and even death threats on social media.
The case has also brought up past controversies, including a 2013 incident where an alleged victim claimed Jessi and her entourage were involved in an assault at a club in Itaewon.
Despite the ongoing criticism, some fans have rallied to her support, trending hashtags like ‘Justice for Jessi’ and arguing that she shouldn’t have to apologize for actions she didn’t personally commit
Jessi was just in Singapore in August for WATERBOMB SINGAPORE 2024.
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