Singer Kim Hojoong, who was serving a prison sentence for a drunk driving hit-and-run incident, has been released on parole. While he shared a handwritten letter to his fans expressing his apologies, public sentiment remains cold.
On the 30th, Kim Hojoong posted a handwritten letter on his official fan cafe, stating, "It took me two years to write here again. I realize once more how grave my mistakes were." He continued, "Among my 2-year and 6-month sentence, I was deemed eligible for parole during the June 2026 review and was released into the world today." He added, "Rather than feeling a sense of freedom or liberation from leaving prison, I feel a greater sense of responsibility. I will continue to reflect and serve the remainder of my sentence."
He further apologized, saying, "Instead of more words, I will clearly look at my current situation and circumstances and live my life without straying. I am sorry. I am truly sorry. I will reflect more and set my heart straight."
Kim Hojoong was released on parole from the Somang Correctional Institution in Yeoju, Gyeonggi-do, this morning. This is approximately five months earlier than his original full-term release date, which was scheduled for this coming November.
In May 2024, Kim Hojoong was indicted on charges of driving under the influence in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, where he crossed the center line, hit a taxi, and fled the scene. He later faced public outrage when it was revealed that he had instructed his manager to turn themselves in falsely. The court found him guilty of charges including dangerous driving resulting in injury under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Crimes, sentencing him to 2 years and 6 months in prison. The sentence was finalized after Kim Hojoong withdrew his appeal. He has now returned to society about five months early after passing the Ministry of Justice's parole review committee.
Outside the prison today, fans gathered with signs reading messages such as "You worked so hard" and "We waited for you, let's be happy now" to welcome his release. However, online, the atmosphere remains icy, with criticisms such as "Isn't he rushing to return rather than reflecting?", "The parole is too early," and "We must not forget the responsibility for drunk driving and destruction of evidence."
Kim Hojoong's side stated that he plans to focus on surgery for both of his ankles and rehabilitation treatment for the time being following his release.
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