Model-Turned-Entrepreneur Cool K Regrets Past Military Service Evasion, Emphasizes Future Choices

Model and businessman Cool K (real name Kim Do-kyung) has expressed deep regret over his past actions related to military service evasion, emphasizing the importance of future choices.

In a video shared on his social media on the 14th, Cool K reflected on his life. "There is one choice in my life that I deeply regret. I really, really didn't want to go to the military when I was in my 20s. I made a terribly wrong choice (military service evasion)," he began, candidly sharing his feelings.

He continued, "After that, I felt so ashamed and embarrassed that I tried to change the past or forget it, but the more I tried, the more I felt trapped by my mistake. People still point fingers at me. I deserve to be pointed at for life." While he completed his military service, including reservist training and civil defense, he stressed the significance of the initial wrong decision.

"No matter how much I tried, how much I regretted it (for 20 years), cried, or caused a scene, it was still my life. It's so obvious, but it took me so long to accept it. And then I realized something," he shared. "There are things we can change. That is the choice from now on. We just need to try harder, as much as we regret the past and feel the pain." He conveyed his determination to find meaning and hope in his efforts, even amidst despair.

Cool K concluded by urging, "Please let go of yourself from past choices you deeply regret. I believe brighter and happier days are definitely waiting for us. I believe that. It's time to move forward."

Cool K had received a Grade 4 classification by intentionally inducing hypertension, but this was exposed, leading to a sentence of 8 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years in October 2008. After a public apology, he enlisted for active duty.

Cool K's birth name is Kim Do-kyung, and he first gained recognition as a model in the early 2000s. He later transitioned into a successful fashion entrepreneur. He achieved significant popularity running the online shopping mall 'K-Sale'.