Ex-Idol Reveals Trauma of Group Assault, 180 Million Won Debt on 'Ask Anything'

A former idol group member, who was forced to leave his group due to assault and later faced financial ruin after failed stock investments, will share his story on KBS Joy's 'Ask Anything'.

On the 339th episode airing tonight at 8:30 PM, the former idol, who debuted in 2017 and was a sub-vocalist for the group 'MASK', will reveal the brutal assault he endured from a fellow group member.

Recalling the incident after finishing promotions for their debut song, he stated, "When I went downstairs with an umbrella that wasn't mine, a member verbally and physically assaulted me." He confessed, "When I questioned it out of unfairness, he hit the umbrella against the wall and struck my head and face," leading to his departure from the group.

After spending a year or two in seclusion, he invested his entire savings of 5 million won into electric vehicle stocks, doubling his money. However, urged by his parents, he took out loans for further investment, resulting in significant losses. His subsequent attempt at crypto futures trading also ended in failure, leaving him with a staggering 180 million won debt.

Currently, he is earning income through YouTube live streaming. He explained, "While repaying 4.65 million won monthly, I can still use about 500,000 won for myself," attributing his modest income to the support of his few viewers.

When the former idol expressed his lingering desire and longing for the stage, the hosts offered practical advice. Seo Jang-hoon suggested, "At twenty-seven, with nothing but debt, you need to reduce your broadcast time, get a part-time job, and change your habits," recommending people-facing roles like working in cafes or clothing stores.

Lee Soo-geun added sternly, "You only have the right to miss the stage if you're prepared to deliver your best performance anytime. Don't just say you want to do something without having anything to show for it; focus on self-development."

Despite his vocal performance on the show, where Seo Jang-hoon acknowledged his voice and talent, he emphasized the need for proactive measures given his age and current circumstances. However, he concluded with words of encouragement, "As long as you don't harbor ill intentions, you will succeed. I see it."

'Ask Anything' airs every Monday at 8:30 PM.

Netizens expressed shock over the group assault, with comments like, 'It's unbelievable that he was assaulted within an idol group,' and '180 million won in debt sounds incredibly difficult.' Many wished him well, saying, 'I hope he can gradually pay off his debts by following the advisors' recommendations.'