YouTube SHINee screenshot
Key of the group SHINee, who had suspended all activities over allegations of illegal medical practice (the so-called 'jusa imo' controversy), stood before the public again after six months.
At midnight on the 11th, SHINee's official channel released a schedule film announcing the comeback schedule for the sixth mini album 'Atmos' slated for release in June. In the video, Key made a surprise appearance as a weather forecaster, drawing fans' attention.
In the video, Key presented a striking visual with short blond hair and a silver accessory on his nose. Although it is his first official step back six months after the controversy, public sentiment toward it is sharply divided.
YouTube SHINee screenshot
Some say Key is merely a victim deceived by the 'jusa imo' who hid their identity, and they support his return, noting that nothing has emerged that would constitute a legal problem. Others argue that restarting activities only half a year after leaving broadcasts, when the problematic points have not yet been clearly resolved, is premature.
Earlier, in December last year, Key was embroiled in controversy over his acquaintance with 'jusa imo' A, who is suspected of unlicensed medical practices, along with broadcaster Park Na-rae.
At the time, SM Entertainment explained, "Key first came to know A as a doctor when he visited a hospital in Gangnam-gu where A works on a friend's recommendation," and added, "He has continued to receive treatment at that hospital, and when visiting recently became difficult, he received treatment at home on several occasions."
The agency continued, "He knew A to be a doctor and did not recognize that receiving treatment at home would be an issue," while adding, "Key has recognized the gravity of the matter and has decided to step down from his scheduled engagements and the programs he is currently appearing on."
Having apologized and announced a halt to activities, Key left all shows on which he was a regular, including MBC's 'I Live Alone' and tvN's 'Amazing Saturday'.
Breaking his period of self-reflection, Key signaled his return through group activities: from the 29th to the 31st, he will take the stage at SHINee's concert at KSPO Dome in Seoul Olympic Park for three days to meet fans in person. He is then slated to officially release the sixth mini album 'Atmos' on June 1.
Attention is focused on whether Key, who has faced the controversy head-on and announced the resumption of activities, can win back divided public sentiment through this album promotion.
