Singer Kim Ho-joong, who was released on parole after serving a prison sentence for a drunk driving hit-and-run, has issued a repeated apology through a handwritten letter to his fans. However, public sentiment remains cold.

On June 30, Kim posted a handwritten letter on his official fan cafe, stating, "It took two years to write here again. I realize once more how grave my wrongdoing was." He continued, "During my two-and-a-half-year sentence, I was deemed eligible for parole by the review committee in June 2026, and I was released today." He added, "Rather than feeling a sense of freedom or liberation from leaving the prison gates, I will fulfill the remainder of my sentence with a greater sense of responsibility and remorse."

He further apologized repeatedly, saying, "Rather than saying more, I will clearly see the situation and circumstances I am in and live without straying. I am sorry. I am truly sorry. I will reflect more and set my heart straight."

Kim was released on parole from Somang Prison in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, on the morning of July 1. This is approximately five months earlier than his originally scheduled full-term release in November.

Previously, Kim was indicted for driving under the influence in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, in May 2024, during which he crossed the center line, hit a taxi, and fled the scene. He later caused 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 two years and six months in prison. The sentence was finalized after Kim withdrew his appeal. Having recently passed the review by the Ministry of Justice's Parole Review Committee, he returned to society about five months ahead of his full term.

On the day of his release, fans gathered in front of the prison, holding signs with messages such as "You worked really hard" and "We waited for you. Let's be happy now," to welcome him. However, public opinion remains cold, with criticism online 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's side stated that he plans to focus on surgery for his ankles and rehabilitation treatment for the time being following his release.



Reported by Kang Kyung-yoon | Produced by SBS Entertainment News