Singer Kim Ho-joong, who has been serving a prison sentence for a drunk driving and hit-and-run accident, is being released on parole today, June 30.

Kim is scheduled to leave Somang Correctional Institution in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, today. This release comes approximately five months earlier than his original scheduled completion date in November. His parole was finalized after recently passing the review by the Ministry of Justice's Parole Review Committee.

Following his release, he plans to focus primarily on recovering his health. Kim's side stated, "He has long suffered from poor conditions in both ankles, and the symptoms worsened during his imprisonment as he could not receive sufficient treatment," adding, "He plans to undergo ankle surgery and rehabilitation immediately after his release." During the parole period, he will be subject to probation and must obtain permission from relevant authorities for any changes in residence or overseas travel.

It is reported that there is little chance his departure from the prison will be made public. Kim is expected to leave the facility by vehicle without any separate public appearances.

Kim was indicted on charges of driving under the influence in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, in May 2024, crossing the center line to collide with an oncoming taxi, and then fleeing the scene. During the investigation, it was revealed that his manager had falsely confessed to the crime on his behalf, and that Kim had attempted to obstruct blood alcohol concentration testing by consuming additional alcohol after the accident, a tactic often referred to as "drinking to confuse." These revelations sparked significant public outrage.

The court found him guilty of charges including dangerous driving resulting in injury under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Crimes, and sentenced him to two years and six months in prison. After beginning his incarceration at the Seoul Detention Center, Kim was transferred to the Somang Correctional Institution in Yeoju in August of last year to serve the remainder of his sentence.

Ahead of his release, Kim's fans continue to show their support while awaiting his return. Recently, it was reported that Kim surpassed 5 billion cumulative streams on the domestic music platform Melon, earning him a spot in the "Gold Club."

Photo: Baek Seung-chul

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