SHINee's Key Continues North American Tour Amidst 'Jusai-imo' Controversy; SM Entertainment's Silence Fuels Fan Concern

SHINee member Key has shared updates from his ongoing North American tour, even as controversy surrounds a figure referred to as 'Jusai-imo' in connection with comedian Park Na-rae. His agency, SM Entertainment, has maintained silence on the matter, leading to mounting fan voices demanding clarification.

On the 14th, official SHINee social media channels released photos capturing Key's activities during the North American leg of his tour. The images showcased Key backstage, engrossed in his performance, as well as commemorating moments with fans and staff after the show.

Fans who couldn't attend the concert were able to catch a glimpse of Key's tour through these photos. Beyond SHINee's group performances, Key's solo stage attire, highlighting his unique concepts, particularly caught the eye.

However, the concert atmosphere wasn't entirely joyful for SHINee fans. Doubts and suspicions regarding 'Jusai-imo' continue to surface, affecting Key. 'Jusai-imo' is accused of providing illegal medical procedures to Park Na-rae. Initially known as a beauty entrepreneur with a large dermatology clinic, the individual became entangled in allegations of illegal medical practices amidst Park Na-rae's disputes with former managers.

Crucially, 'Jusai-imo' is reportedly from a non-existent 'ghost medical school' in China and cannot be officially verified by any medical associations in Korea, such as the Korean Medical Association or the Korean Nurses Association. The inability to confirm their credentials has fueled speculation, further intensified by the deletion of all personal social media posts by the individual.

Compounding the issue, photos and videos have circulated on social media and online communities suggesting a long-standing friendship of over a decade between 'Jusai-imo' and Key. Before deletion, videos reportedly showed 'Jusai-imo' visiting Key's home and interacting familiarly with his pets, Comme des and Garçons. Messages exchanged, including one from 'Jusai-imo' receiving an album via express delivery stating, 'You brought it first when the album came out,' and a response implying gratitude along with a gift of an expensive luxury necklace, have also spread widely. Furthermore, photos of Key attending 'Jusai-imo's' daughter's first birthday party have surfaced.

In response to this series of controversies, neither Key nor his agency, SM Entertainment, has issued any official statement, maintaining a stance of silence. This contrasts sharply with Key's usual image of clearly expressing himself on various broadcasts and content, leaving fans increasingly anxious. Amidst speculation, fans are awaiting a word from Key, hoping to clear up unnecessary worries and see him continue to shine as the 'master key'.

Korean netizens expressed frustration, commenting, 'I wish they'd release an explanation soon,' 'I don't understand why the agency is staying silent,' and 'Maybe Key himself should state his position.'