No Time for Self-Reflection in K-Hip-Hop? Drug Scandal Rapper Sik-K to Perform at Festival

Rapper Sik-K (31) is facing public backlash after returning to the stage just two days after receiving a suspended prison sentence for illegal drug use.

On May 3, Sik-K performed at the HIPHOPPLAYA FESTIVAL 2025 held at Kintex in Goyang, Gyeonggi-do.

His appearance came only 48 hours after the Seoul Western District Court sentenced him to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, along with probation and mandatory participation in a 40-hour drug prevention education program.

The court found him guilty of violating the Narcotics Control Act, noting that he had used marijuana, ketamine, and ecstasy on multiple occasions.

Despite his prior drug offenses and public influence as a well-known artist, the judge took into account his remorse and voluntary confession regarding marijuana possession and use.

While the sentence spared him jail time, Sik-K's decision to resume performances without issuing a formal apology or showing signs of self-reflection has stirred controversy.

Many hip-hop fans expressed disappointment, accusing him of lacking accountability and setting a poor example for young listeners.

"He committed a crime, and yet he's back on stage without so much as a word of apology or reflection. Even though hip-hop music embraces freedom, this sends the wrong message to teenagers who look up to these artists," one fan commented online.

Prosecutors had originally sought a sentence of three years and six months, citing the severity of his offenses.

According to their report, Sik-K used ketamine and ecstasy between October 1 and 9, 2023.

He later turned himself in to police near the Seoul Regional Veterans Affairs Office in Yongsan on January 19, 2024, reportedly asking, "Is this a police station?" and confessing to drug use.

Despite the scandal, Sik-K has announced additional performances, including appearances at SUPERPOP 2025 on May 17 and Waterbomb Seoul 2025 on June 7, signaling an active return to the stage.

The situation has reignited debate over moral responsibility in Korea's hip-hop scene, where some say there is a growing trend of dismissing consequences in favor of career momentum.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)