SHINee's Key apologizes after 11 days amid 'injection aunt' controversy; netizens divided

K-pop sensation SHINee's Key has issued an apology after 11 days concerning the controversial 'injection aunt' issue. However, discussions are ongoing about the timing of his apology, as it came after he had largely completed his US tour schedule.

Key faced demands for clarification when his association with the individual involved in the 'injection aunt' controversy, which also implicated Park Na-rae, came to light. For about ten days, Key remained silent without issuing any statement.

During this period, Key proceeded with his fourth solo tour, '2025 Keyland: Uncanny Valley', in the US as scheduled. He toured cities like Los Angeles, Oakland, Dallas-Fort Worth, Brooklyn, Chicago, and Seattle. Due to these commitments, he also missed recordings for his regular appearances on MBC's 'I Live Alone' and tvN's 'Amazing Saturday'.

It was also revealed that he missed the 'I Live Alone' studio recording on the 8th, during the height of the controversy, after prior coordination, leading to speculation that 'overseas schedules were prioritized'.

Following his silence, Key finally released a personal apology. He stated, 'I sincerely apologize for causing concern with various stories. It took time to sort out my position as I was confused and taken aback by the newly learned facts.' He added, 'My confidence that I could distance myself from such matters prevented me from looking around me,' bowing his head in humility.

However, reactions from fans and the public are mixed. Notably, his fellow group member Onew had previously made a relatively quick statement when the controversy arose after the 'injection aunt' posted a signed CD on her social media. Onew had explained, 'I first visited a clinic in Sinsa-dong in April 2022 through a recommendation from an acquaintance, and considering the clinic's scale at the time, it was difficult to be aware of any medical license controversy.' This contrasts with Key's delayed explanation, raising questions.

Some have cautiously raised suspicions, suggesting, 'Perhaps he waited until after completing all his schedules to issue an apology to avoid potential penalties or disruptions to his performances.' Key's side has not yet provided a specific comment on this.

Given Key's usual image of being honest and straightforward, this selective silence is seen by many as detrimental. While he has now announced a hiatus from broadcasting activities along with his apology to manage the situation, the controversy surrounding the timing of his apology shows no signs of easily subsiding.

Korean netizens are divided. Some commented, 'He should have apologized sooner, his overseas tour was more important than the fans,' while others defended him, saying, 'He was confused by the new facts, give him some time.'