Singer Kim Ho-joong Faces Extortion Attempt by Prison Guard During Sentence

Singer Kim Ho-joong, currently serving time for a DUI hit-and-run, has reportedly been subjected to an extortion attempt by a prison guard.

According to the Ministry of Justice and correctional authorities on the 16th, an investigation has been launched into correctional officer A, affiliated with Somang Prison in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, where Kim is incarcerated.

Officer A allegedly demanded tens of millions of won from Kim Ho-joong, claiming he had facilitated his transfer to Somang Prison. Kim, feeling anxious about potential difficulties in his sentence if he refused, disclosed the incident during an internal staff meeting, which triggered the investigation.

It is understood that Kim Ho-joong did not actually pay any money. A representative for Kim described the incident as a 'minor misunderstanding that was resolved.'

Kim Ho-joong was sentenced to two years and six months in prison for fleeing the scene after a DUI collision last May. He was transferred from Seoul Detention Center to Somang Prison, the country's sole private correctional facility, in August.

Fans expressed sympathy, stating, 'It's sad he has to go through this even in such a difficult situation,' and 'I hope he completes the rest of his sentence without further unfair incidents.' Some netizens were shocked, commenting, 'I can't believe this happened.'