Kim Ho-joong's 'Super Classic' Tickets to be Refunded Without Fees Amid DUI Hit-and-Run Controversy

연합뉴스 / 2024-05-21 09:48:31

▲ A Yonhap file photo of South Korean singer Kim Ho-joong (Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 21 (Yonhap) -- Singer Kim Ho-joong, who is facing allegations of a hit-and-run while under the influence of alcohol, will have tickets for his upcoming performance refunded without any additional fees.

Melon, the ticketing agency for the event, announced on its official website on the 21st that ticket holders for the "World Union Orchestra Super Classic: Kim Ho-joong & Primadonna" ("Super Classic") concerts scheduled for May 23-25 can receive refunds without incurring cancellation fees.

Additionally, those who have already canceled their tickets will receive a full refund of the fees previously charged.

However, it is important to note that direct cancellations will still incur fees, so customers are advised to contact the customer service center for fee-free refunds. Initially, cancellations made one or two days before the concert were subject to a 30% cancellation fee.

This decision is an apparent response to the public backlash following Kim Ho-joong’s involvement in the incident.

Despite the controversy, the concert's organizer, Dumir, has stated they will proceed with the performance, rejecting KBS's request to replace Kim Ho-joong. Dumir maintains that the concert will go ahead unless Kim is physically unable to perform, such as being detained.

The news of the concert proceeding as planned has sparked criticism on online communities, with many arguing that a performance by Kim, who attempted to destroy evidence following his crime, should be canceled.

Kim Ho-joong is accused of fleeing the scene after colliding with a taxi in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam, on May 9 at approximately 11:40 PM. He faces charges under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes (Hit-and-Run with Injury) and the Road Traffic Act (Failure to Take Measures After an Accident).

He remained in a hotel for 17 hours after the accident, making it nearly impossible for police to conduct a timely alcohol test.

While he initially denied driving under the influence, the National Forensic Service’s (NFS) report, disclosed on May 18, indicated that he had consumed alcohol prior to the accident. Kim admitted to the DUI the following day.