Singer Jin Hae-seong Loses Defamation Lawsuit Amid School Violence Allegations; Broadcast Future Uncertain

Singer Jin Hae-seong is facing controversy as he recently lost a defamation lawsuit related to school violence allegations, raising questions about his continued appearances on television programs.

The Seoul Central District Court ruled against Jin Hae-seong and his agency, KDH Entertainment, in a lawsuit seeking damages from accuser A, who had accused the singer of school violence. The court dismissed all claims by Jin Hae-seong's side and ordered them to bear the litigation costs. Furthermore, a previous complaint filed by Jin Hae-seong's side against A for defamation was also dismissed.

Accuser A had posted in February 2021, detailing alleged school violence experienced at the hands of Jin Hae-seong during middle school. While Jin Hae-seong denied the allegations, the court found it difficult to deem A's account as false. The court's decision was based on the consistent and specific testimonies of A and other middle school classmates who described Jin Hae-seong as having been a 'school bully'.

Amid these developments, attention is focused on whether Jin Hae-seong will continue his appearances on MBN's variety shows, 'Han-Il Top Ten Show' and 'Welcome to Jjin-ine'. 'Welcome to Jjin-ine' has approximately three episodes remaining, and 'Han-Il Top Ten Show', which is nearing its finale, had already completed recording Jin Hae-seong's segments. Program officials told OSEN that they are 'currently verifying their stance' regarding the broadcast of his remaining parts.

Netizens are expressing strong criticism, with comments such as, 'Given the court's decision, it seems wrong to broadcast his segments as planned,' and 'Shouldn't he apologize to the victim and go on hiatus?'